After Pregnancy

Early Problems With Breast Feeding

Every woman that has ever breast fed their baby knows that there can be times that they will have different problems associated with breastfeeding. These can include nipple soreness, engorgement of the breasts, not enough milk supply, clogged milk ducts, infection of the breasts and thrush.

Nipple soreness is a very common experience with breastfeeding mothers especially during the first few weeks. Sometimes the soreness can be caused from incorrect feeding techniques, the position in which you hold the baby, and not caring for your nipples properly. Much of the soreness can be elevated by changing the position in which you hold the baby while nursing and finding a more comfortable position for yourself as well. If your breasts are either too dry or too moist, this can cause them to become sore as well. Using lotions with lanolin can aid in the prevention of dry, chapped nipples. Soreness can also be brought on once your baby begins to teeth and uses your nipples as a teething ring. Before breastfeeding your little one when he begins to teeth you can allow him to chew on a cold damp washcloth, this may prevent him from chewing on your nipples.

Breast engorgement is when the blood vessels become congested. Your breasts will be swollen, painful, and hard. Your nipples will not protrude so your baby will not be able to nurse. To prevent engorgement it is best to nurse at least 8 times in 24 hours. You can also use a breast pump to relieve the milk that is building up in your breast if you are producing more milk than your baby will drink. Many times, you can enjoy a warm shower and allow the water to run down over your breasts, this will cause the milk release and give you comfort.

You may notice that your baby needs to breastfeed more often; this can be caused from your breasts not supplying enough milk. Ways to ensure that you will produce enough milk is to nurse often, get plenty of rest, eat well-balanced meals and drink plenty of liquids.

A clogged milk duct can occur if your baby does not feed well, if you skip a feeding or wear a tight bra. Symptoms include heat and redness in a small area of the breast, tenderness, and a small lump will be visible. Normally, you can massage the lump and gently apply pressure and it will remove the clog.

Breast infection symptoms include fever, aching muscles, and hot, tender, red breasts. It may only affect one breast. You will have to contact your doctor for treatment.

Thrush is very common. It is a yeast infection that is passed between mom and baby during breastfeeding. If you or baby either one have thrush your doctor will prescribe a medication that can be used to rid both of you from passing the infection back and forth. Symptoms include for mom pink tender nipples, which are tender during and after nursing: for baby white patches and more redness in the interior of the mouth.