Breastfeeding is not easy for everyone; it can also be pretty challenging for some. I often meet moms who are having a tough time and feeling totally overwhelmed. With the right tips and a bit of good support, you can avoid these issues. In this blog post, I’m going to talk about some common breastfeeding problems and how to fix them.
1. Latching Difficulties
One of the most frequent and common issues new mothers face is getting the baby to latch properly. A poor latch can lead to insufficient milk intake and sore nipples.
What to do: Make sure your baby’s mouth covers a large portion of the areola, not just the nipple. Try different breastfeeding positions, such as the laid-back nursing or the cross-cradle hold, to find what works best for both you and your baby. Consulting with a lactation consultant immediately at this stage can provide you immediate relief, delaying this might lead you to some other breastfeeding issues like sore nipples, mastitis et al.,
2. Sore Nipples
Sore or cracked nipples can make breastfeeding painful and discourage mothers from continuing.
What to do: Check the baby’s latch, as improper latching is a common cause of sore nipples. Applying a lanolin-based nipple cream or expressing a few drops of breast milk to rub on the nipples can promote healing. Allow your nipples to air dry after feedings to prevent further irritation. Until you correct the latch, the soreness will not go away.
If you are struggling even after correcting your latch then it’s time to seek advice from a lactation consultant to rule out infections or other issues.
3. Low Milk Supply
Concerns about low milk supply can cause significant stress for breastfeeding mothers.
What to do: Increasing the frequency of breastfeeding sessions can help stimulate milk production. Ensure you’re staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in lactogenic foods like greens, pulses, lentils and fruits. Breastfeeding on demand, rather than on a feeding schedule can also help.
4. Engorgement
Engorgement, when breasts become full with breastmilk and painful, this often occurs in the early days of breastfeeding or when feedings are missed.
What to do: Regular breastfeeding or pumping sessions can help prevent engorgement. Massaging before feedings and cold compresses afterward can alleviate discomfort. Gentle breast massages during feedings can also aid in milk flow. If the pain is not going away immediately consult lactation consultant, don’t delay.
5. Mastitis
Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue, often accompanied by infection, leading to pain, redness, and flu-like symptoms.
What to do: Continue breastfeeding or pumping to keep milk flowing and prevent blockages. Rest, apply cold compresses, and take pain relief medication as needed. If symptoms worsen or persist, antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider may be necessary. Early intervention and consistent feeding are key to resolving mastitis quickly.
6. Nursing Strikes
Sometimes, babies suddenly refuse to breastfeed, known as a nursing strike, which can be distressing for mothers.
What to do: Identify potential causes such as illness, teething, or changes in routine, most of the times these affect babies feeding schedule. Maintain a calm and comforting environment, and try breastfeeding in a quiet, darkened room. Offering the breast when the baby is sleepy or using skin-to-skin contact can encourage them to resume breastfeeding. Patience and persistence are essential during this period.
Remember, every mother’s journey is different, and seeking help from a lactation consultant can help you with tailored advice and reassurance you need.
Happy Feeding!