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Many people think breastfeeding is an easy job and actually comes naturally to all mother. No matter how easy it might seem in theory, it is not so in practice. As a matter of fact, most of the new mothers out there have their ups and downs when it comes to breastfeeding their babies. At times it is the baby who is not able to latch properly but sometimes it is the breastfeeding habits of a mother that is responsible for the difficulties. Many mothers indulge in these habits unconsciously and have no idea they are negatively affecting their babies.

Here is a list of some of the bad breastfeeding habits of mothers to find out if you are doing it too:

1. Having too much alcohol

It doesn’t matter if you drink at even or you generally drink too much. In both cases, it is bad for you and your baby. When you take too much alcohol, it enters your breast milk supply harming your baby in a number of ways. In case you really want to go out at night and have some fun, make sure you take out your breast milk in a bottle before leaving or simply ask someone to bottle feed your baby.

2. Not giving your baby enough time to feed

Did you know the composition of your breastmilk goes through changes as well when you are feeding your child? In the beginning, he gets skimmed milk and the composition changes to whole milk. Your baby requires both. This means you should give him enough time to finish milk in each breast. Otherwise, your baby is going to be underfed.

3. Having herbs without consultation

Did you know even herbs can have side effects? They can adversely affect your milk supply which is why it is important to talk to your lactation consultant before taking them. Natural remedies can seem to be the safest choice to solve breastfeeding issues but do not start taking any herb without any consultation from experts. Self-medication can have negative results.

4. Feeding your baby only on schedule

It is good to have a feeding routine for your child but being too strict with the set schedule is not good for your baby. You might miss feeding cues by following strict timings. This restricts the amount of milk your baby receives and the nutritional needs of your child are not properly fulfilled.

5. Applying pressure to your breasts

While it might be great to wear tight clothes before you breastfed, it is a complete no when it comes to breastfeeding your little one. Why? Because when you apply too much pressure on your breasts in any ways, this clogs the milk ducts which can also cause a breast infection called mastitis. It is an infection in your breast tissue that causes a lot of pain. Make sure you don’t sleep in a position that applies pressure on your breast and never apply too much pressure with your fingers as well.

6. Being distracted while feeding your baby

Never breastfeed your baby with your head surrounded with a hundred different thoughts except your baby. After all, breastfeeding is a way of forming a deeper bond between the mother and the child. Don’t stop yourself from forming a deeper connection. Your child wants you to look him in the eye when your breastfeed. Don’t forget to do that.