Let’s Talk About the Hard Stuff: Common Breastfeeding Challenges + How to Navigate Them

Written By Rachael McGauley

Breastfeeding is often described as natural, beautiful, and instinctive, but what many parents aren’t told is that it can also be uncomfortable, confusing, and emotionally draining. If you’ve struggled (or are currently struggling), you’re not alone, and you’re not doing anything wrong.

Let’s talk about some of the most common breastfeeding challenges new parents face, and how to move through them with support and grace.

🤱 Common Breastfeeding Challenges

1. Painful Latch or Nipple Pain
Discomfort during the first few days can be normal, but pain that makes you wince or dread feeding is not. It’s often a sign of a shallow latch or tension in your baby’s mouth. A lactation consultant or doula can help assess the latch and offer immediate relief strategies.

2. Low Milk Supply (or Fear of It)
It’s easy to worry your baby isn’t getting enough, especially if they feed frequently. True low supply is rare, but things like infrequent feeding, stress, or unaddressed latch issues can cause dips. The fix? Frequent nursing, skin-to-skin contact, and professional guidance.

3. Oversupply or Fast Letdown
Too much milk can be just as stressful, causing choking, spitting up, or frustration at the breast. Try nursing in a reclined position, offering one breast per feed, or hand-expressing a little before latching.

4. Nursing Fatigue & Emotional Load
Even if it’s physically going “fine,” breastfeeding can feel mentally overwhelming, especially during growth spurts, sleep deprivation, or around-the-clock care. Your feelings are valid. You deserve rest, breaks, and emotional support.

🛠️ How to Navigate the Hard Days

  • Reach out for help early, don’t wait until you’re in tears

  • Remember that feeding is a team effort, you don’t have to do it all

  • Use tools that make it easier: nursing pillows, nipple balm, soothing music, a support person on snack duty

  • Take breaks, pump if needed, or supplement if that brings you peace, your mental health matters too

Breastfeeding is hard for so many parents, and those challenges are not a reflection of your love or effort.
You are doing an incredible job. The more we talk about the tough stuff, the more supported everyone feels.

If you're struggling, curious, or just need to vent, I’m here for you. No shame, no pressure. Just support.

Rachael McGauley
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Breastfeeding Basics: What to Expect in the First Few Weeks