I would have to say lack of education. I always wanted to breast feed because I know that it is the best option for baby. However I was also lucky enough to be aware in advance that not everyone can. At our ante-natal class a whole 2 hour session was dedicated to breastfeeding. This entailed during a breast on an inflated condom complete with milkducts etc. It was emphasised that it was natural and the best thing to do. However at no point was it mentionned that lots of mothers have problems, not every baby gets it straight away, it was just implied that it was easy. When my darling son was born he couldn't attach properly and we had real problems. It turned out that I had flat nipples. I was very lucky that I had some good midwives in hospital but they all had their own ways of doing things. We persevered and I was kept in for 4 days to try and resolve the situation. We were sent home and he still wasn't really getting the hang of it. I had 2 EMS visits from midwives who both helped me with the breast feeding and took the time to help. However from that point on I was on my own, we went backwards because he forgot how to attach and couldn't feed. At this point I phoned my community health centre who told me they could fit me in for an appointment in 8 days. I phoned the maternity ward and explained the situation and was lucky to speak to a lactation consultant who brought me back in and spent 1.5 hours with me showing me and emphasising that the fact that I was still trying to breastfeed after mastitis, cracked and bleeding nipples, flat nipples and no support from the clinic was a real credit to me. Thanks to her help we persevered and have now mastered it - though only by using a nipple sheild. My DS is gaining weight and is happy. We need more lactation consultants in the system and way more support once you get home. It is too easy to quit and switch to formula - which incidentally is exactly what my doctor told me to do after 5 minute consultation. There also needs to be a lot more information about how it is not easy, it doesn't happen overnight and you are not a failure if it doesn't happen immediately. That was how I felt but thankfully I did find good supportive midwives, but they are overworked and underappreciated. More are needed.
Sorry that's me saying my piece!
Joanne