The Battleground of Breastfeeding
Let’s talk about breastfeeding—not the serene, soft-lit, sleepy-baby-on-the-boob version you see on Instagram and in the pic above (yes that’s my boob and my baby). I'm talking about the cracked nipples, the cluster feeding, the constant Googling, “is this normal?” side of it.
For many people, breastfeeding is less of a gentle bonding moment and more of a full-on battle—emotionally, physically, logistically. And when mastitis enters the picture? Game over. If you've ever had it, you know. It’s not just a sore boob—it’s a red-hot, flu-like, knock-you-out kind of pain that makes you want to launch your pump across the room.
The Learning Curve is Real
Here’s the kicker: I’m someone who likes to be prepared. I read the books. I asked the questions. I took the classes. But no one could have truly prepared me for how hard breastfeeding would be. I thought it would be instinctual—natural.
But it turns out it’s a learned skill. And not just for you—for your baby too.
The latch? OH, the latch. Figuring that out is like learning a complicated dance in the dark while both partners are blindfolded and crying.
Pretty sure this was my L&D nurse explaining the latch after labouring overnight, as a I lay incapacitated in the hospital bed in my own diaper with my bleeding vagina.
Support Makes All the Difference
Midwives can be incredible resources for lactation support early on. And lactation consultants? Actual wizards. Don’t hesitate to reach out—there is no award for struggling in silence.
And let’s name something important:
You can love breastfeeding and struggle with it.
Both things can be true.
It’s Not Just Personal — It’s Political
Breastfeeding is wrapped up in so much pressure, expectation, and identity. While “breast is best” may come from good intentions, the reality is more nuanced.
If it isn’t working for you—mentally, physically, or logistically—it is okay to stop. You are a good parent either way.
If you’re a data nerd (hi, same), Emily Oster breaks it all down in her book Cribsheet. Her analysis? The long-term differences between breastfed and formula-fed babies are minimal. The strongest predictor of better outcomes isn’t the milk—it’s the socioeconomic status of the parent.
P.S. Physio Can Help, Too
Breastfeeding-related pain? Recurring clogged ducts or mastitis? There’s support for that. Physiotherapy can help with:
Lymphatic drainage to support milk flow and reduce pressure buildup
Therapeutic ultrasound to break up stubborn clogs
Postural and positioning strategies to reduce strain during feeds
Inflammation management
These are gentle, non-invasive approaches that support your body while respecting your feeding journey.
It’s not all kegels and squats over here. 😉
If you like having up-to-date, evidence-based info, check out the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine’s Mastitis Protocol #36 (PDF) — it outlines the latest recommendations for inflammation, mastitis, and clogged ducts.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding is hard.
You're not alone.
It’s okay to ask for help.
It’s okay to stop.
You can love it and still find it unbelievably hard.
And you’re doing a damn good job, whatever path you're on.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Kate — pelvic floor physiotherapist, founder of Gravida Physiotherapy, and mom of two. I support people through all stages of pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond—because your body deserves care long after the six-week checkup.
If you're dealing with breastfeeding pain, mastitis, or just feeling overwhelmed in your recovery, I’m here to help.
Find me on Instagram @physio.kate or reach out here. You’re not meant to do this alone.
