Figuring Out Breastfeeding: You’re Not Alone, Mama

By Dr. Alyssa McPeak | Roots Wholistic Health

Breastfeeding. It’s supposed to be this natural, beautiful experience—bonding with your baby, nourishing them with your body, and creating a rhythm together. And sometimes it is. But for many moms, it also comes with frustration, pain, and tears. It’s okay to say it: breastfeeding can be really hard.

When It’s Not as Easy as It Looks

If you’re a mom who’s struggled with latch issues, cracked nipples, engorgement, oversupply, undersupply, clogged ducts, or feeling like your baby is constantly hungry—you’re not alone. Maybe your baby won’t latch, or maybe they’re fussy and gassy after every feed. Maybe you’re pumping nonstop and still not getting enough. The reality is, while breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally.

And that’s not your fault.

Breastfeeding success isn’t just about willpower. There are many physical and neurological components that affect how well a baby can nurse—and how well a mama can produce.

Natural Solutions to Support Breastfeeding

If you’re looking for natural ways to support your breastfeeding journey, here are some options to consider:

• Work with a Lactation Consultant – Sometimes small adjustments make a big difference. A good IBCLC can spot positioning issues, poor latch technique, or feeding patterns that need tweaking.

• Herbal Support – Fenugreek, goat’s rue, moringa, and blessed thistle are known for supporting milk supply (but always consult with a provider before adding herbs to your regimen).

• Hydration & Nutrition – Breastfeeding takes a lot out of you—literally. Focus on nutrient-dense, protein-rich meals and lots of water.

• Chiropractic Care – One of the most overlooked tools for breastfeeding struggles.

How Pediatric Chiropractic Can Help Your Baby Breastfeed Better

When babies struggle to latch, nurse efficiently, or are fussy and gassy after feeds, it could be due to tension or misalignments in their body—especially in the head, neck, and jaw.

At Roots Wholistic Health, we often evaluate babies for:

• Tongue, Lip, and Buccal Ties – These oral restrictions can affect a baby’s ability to latch and transfer milk properly. Gentle chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue work can help release oral tension and support healing post-revision if needed.

• Cranial & Jaw Adjustments – Birth is hard on tiny heads. Gentle cranial work and jaw balancing can improve suck, reduce tension, and help your baby feed more efficiently.

• Upper Palate Work – If the roof of the mouth is high or narrow, it can affect latch and seal. Specific intra-oral techniques help normalize the palate shape.

• Cervical Spine Adjustments – Misalignments in the neck can lead to difficulty turning the head to nurse on both sides or cause discomfort during feeding.

We use the gentlest, safest techniques that are appropriate for newborns. Most babies visibly relax and often nurse better immediately after care.

Chiropractic for Mom: Supporting the Milk-Making Machine

Your body is doing an incredible thing. But it’s also under a lot of pressure. Moms benefit from chiropractic care too—especially during the postpartum period.

Benefits of chiropractic care for breastfeeding moms include:

• Increased Milk Supply – Nervous system function impacts hormone production (including prolactin and oxytocin). Restoring balance can support your body’s milk-making abilities.

• Decreased Stress and Tension – Stress can interfere with letdown and milk supply. Chiropractic helps calm the nervous system and relieve the physical stress of new motherhood.

• Improved Immune Function – Getting sick is the last thing you need. Chiropractic supports your body’s immune response to keep you and baby healthy.

• Pain Relief – Feeding posture, carrying baby, and poor sleep can lead to back, neck, and shoulder discomfort. Adjustments can help you feel more like you again.

  
  

Ask for Help (Even When It’s Hard)

One of the hardest things for moms to do is ask for help. But you are not meant to do this alone.

Reach out.

Call your local lactation consultant, midwife, doula, or pediatric chiropractor. Let them support you. At Roots Wholistic Health, we’re here for both you and your baby—because your well-being matters just as much as theirs.

Breastfeeding might not look like what you imagined. But with support, it can become what you need: nourishing, sustainable, and even beautiful.

You are doing an amazing job, mama.

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Want to schedule a consult for you or your baby? Visit us at Roots Wholistic Health or call our office 715-258-7001. We’re here for you every step of the way.