Well Done Mum

Common Problems with Breastfeeding

Some women breastfeed without problems but for many women, it is natural for minor problems to arise at the beginning, especially if it is their first time breastfeeding. The good news is that most problems can be overcome with a little help and support. Some more serious problems may require you to see a lactation consultant or your doctor. It is important to know the warning signs for these situations. Here are some of the most common problems that you might face, and some solutions to overcome them.

Sore Nipples:

At first you wonder if your newborn will ever latch on, then before you know it, your baby is sucking so vigorously your nipples become sore, even painful. This problem is not un-common and in fact most women suffer at least a little nipple soreness before breastfeeding becomes well established.

Ways to help alleviate the discomfort:

• Try rotating nursing positions so a different part of the nipple will be compressed at each feeding.
• Be certain your baby has the entire areola in his mouth when nursing and not just the nipple.
• Expose nipples to air whenever possible but especially after nursing.
• Remove any waterproof lining from your bra.
• Unmedicated lanolin and A&D ointment are effective.
• Clean nipples with only water.

Engorgement:

Breast engorgement occurs in the mammary glands when too much breast milk is contained within them. It is caused by insufficient breastfeeding and/or blocked milk ducts. When engorged the breasts may swell, throb, and cause mild to extreme pain.

The engorgement that arrives with a mother's milk can temporarily make nursing agonizing for her and because the nipples are flattened by the swelling, frustrating for the baby.

Engorgement occurs rather suddenly, usually over a few hours, most often on the third or fourth postpartum day. You can use heat or cold packs to reduce the discomfort. A breast pump or manual expression of milk can help to get the flow started and ease the engorgement enough to allow your baby to grasp the nipple for suckling.

Don't be tempted to skip on feeds because of the pain, the less your baby sucks the more engorged you become. The more your nurse your newborn the more quickly engorgement will subside.