What Is Breastfeeding Restlessness? – Being Parents
Restlessness due to breastfeeding is one of the problems that can appear during breastfeeding. In this one the mother experiences anxiety and even the refusal to breastfeed her baby.
Restlessness from breastfeeding means that the mother has a tremendous sense of guilt. Indeed, she is in pain because of the need to stop breastfeeding the baby.
It is also considered to be one of the most negative situations a mother can suffer from because it is an irrational feeling. This happens because they feel an overwhelming urge to stop breastfeeding immediately.
In other cases, it happens because breastfeeding can become an uncomfortable act. It’s more common when breastfeeding is done in tandem.
However, with the right support and commitment, this challenge can be overcome.
Why is this happening?
Although there are many theories in this regard, the cause that triggers aversion to breastfeeding has not been demonstrated .
What is certain is that unwanted thoughts and emotions mainly arise when the baby clings to his chest in an anxious way.
Usually these feelings go away when the child stops breastfeeding.
8 tips to fight breastfeeding restlessness
Practicing the following tips will help you fight restlessness from breastfeeding :
1. Look for distractions
Most mothers who have been through this situation say that having fun is the most important thing in overcoming this problem.
This situation cannot get over you. Therefore, you should try to think of other things. You must have a busy and clear mind. Thus, the situation will be a little less burdensome for you.
2. Try to get a good rest
You should get enough sleep and get as much rest as possible during this time. Fatigue can worsen aversion to breastfeeding.
In these times, you need to be careful and take care of yourself. So take every opportunity to rest in those times when the baby allows it.
3. Avoid stressful situations
You should also avoid any type of situation that causes you stress. It is a difficult time for you, in which you must above all remain calm.
Therefore, controlling the stress caused by the situation will influence your feelings.
You can also try to organize yourself better. For example, by planning for the week. This will help you avoid any situation that may be out of your control.
4. Eat and hydrate properly
Don’t skip meals no matter how busy you may be with the baby. In addition, it is just as important that you are well hydrated. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and drink cool drinks.
5. Do not practice tandem breastfeeding
If you are breastfeeding in tandem, we recommend that you do not breastfeed your two babies at the same time.
Your anxiety may increase if you are breast-feeding them at the same time.
6. Consider a possible withdrawal
In a way, restlessness from breastfeeding can be a completely normal response to the pain that breastfeeding your baby can cause you.
As the pregnancy progresses, the hormonal change can prepare the body to feel that it is time to wean the child.
If you think the right time has come, you can consult a specialist to do it gradually.
7. Normalize the situation
You need to normalize the situation and translate that initial guilt into positivism. You are neither the first nor the last mom to suffer from this sensation.
Of course, you are not a bad mother either because you want to stop breastfeeding your baby.
8. Share your experience
Above all, it’s time for you to share your experience with your partner. Above all, don’t keep that guilt feeling to yourself.
It will be very important that you externalize your emotions to your loved ones. Thus, they will be able to understand what you are feeling and also give you their point of view.
Also, it is beneficial that you talk to other mothers so that you know if they have suffered from this situation. Plus it will help you identify what can help you.
As always, having a conversation with a healthcare professional will be very helpful.
Therefore, try to face this situation as a challenge that you are able to overcome .
Maintaining a positive attitude, being entertained and having the support of those close to you will help you cope with this situation.