Breastfeeding: Following Your Instincts and Finding Support

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things in the world. It’s designed to be the very best food for your baby—packed with the perfect balance of fats and proteins, easy to digest, and full of protective properties that help little ones fight infection. On top of that, it’s a beautiful way for mums to bond with their precious bundles.

And yet, despite all these benefits, breastfeeding rates still don’t reach the levels we’d love to see nationally.

So why has something so natural become so challenging? Why do so many mums struggle beyond six weeks? Why do pain, supply issues, and mastitis feel like such common hurdles?

Looking at Breastfeeding Through a Different Lens

Imagine a mother in a developing country. She doesn’t have a stack of baby books, a clock to time feeds, or a special chair and pillow set aside for “feeding time.” She doesn’t have a dozen different voices telling her what she should or shouldn’t be doing.

When her baby cries, she follows her instincts. She puts her baby to the breast—again and again. She doesn’t worry about routines, schedules, or whether her baby is feeding “too often.” She simply responds to her baby’s needs.

By feeding on demand, her baby naturally regulates her milk supply. Her breasts don’t become painfully full, because she’s feeding when her baby needs it. She doesn’t compare her baby’s sleep to anyone else’s, and she isn’t second‑guessing herself every step of the way.

Why Modern Mums Feel Overwhelmed

Every day, I hear from mothers who are struggling with breastfeeding. A common theme? Conflicting advice.

Some are told to limit feeds to a certain number of minutes. Others are warned that if they don’t start a routine immediately, they’ll “make a rod for their back.” Add in the endless stream of books, blogs, and well‑meaning friends, and it’s no wonder mums feel confused and pressured.

To make things harder, many health professionals—GPs, osteopaths, chiropractors, paediatricians, and even some midwives—don’t receive in‑depth training in breastfeeding unless they’ve chosen to study it further. And while there are wonderful lactation consultants out there, not all are regulated or have a medical background.

That’s why it’s so important to ask about qualifications and experience when choosing someone to support you.

Finding the Right Support

If you’re experiencing pain, supply worries, or just feel unsure about your feeding journey, you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right guidance, breastfeeding can become more comfortable, more manageable, and more enjoyable.

As an Adelaide Lactation Consultant, I work with mums every day to help them feel confident and supported. Whether it’s overcoming pain, boosting supply, or simply finding reassurance that you’re doing a wonderful job, I’m here to walk alongside you.

Because at the end of the day, breastfeeding isn’t about rules, routines, or comparisons—it’s about you and your baby, finding your own rhythm together.

✨ If you’re ready for gentle, practical support, please reach out. Your breastfeeding journey can feel lighter, calmer, and more connected—with the right help by your side.