SHARES
There are solutions to breastfeeding issues so they won’t stand in the way of successful breastfeeding. Breastfeeding provides the baby with natural superfood, especially during the first six months of life. Mother’s milk satisfies hunger and thirst while creating a loving bond between both parties. Besides that, breastfeeding also has many health benefits for mothers. In addition to reducing post-delivery haemorrhage, it also prevents breast and ovarian cancer, and delay periods.
Although it is highly encouraged, breastfeeding issues such as breast pain and discomfort may deter some from doing so. Not to mention the the amount of persistence required to succeed. In this article, we explore the solutions on how to overcome breastfeeding issues for mothers to successfully nurture their babies.
Problem 1: It hurts when my baby latch on me.
The nipples may feel sore when initiating breastfeeding, especially for first timers. If the pain persists beyond one minute, consider repositioning your baby.
Solution: A good position would be an asymmetrical latch where baby’s mouth covers more of the areola (the darker rim around the nipple) below the nipple rather than above.
Reposition your baby as follow:
- Place your index finger inside baby’s mouth to break the latch.
- Bring your baby to your breast.
- Gently brush your baby’s mouth with the underside of your areola, which usually causes your baby to open the mouth wide.
- When mouth opens, bring your baby to your breast so they take a good mouthful of breast tissue, with your nipple aimed at the roof of your baby’s mouth.
Proper latch (Source: UpToDate)
If your baby is well-attached:
- Your baby’s nose will be clear or only just be touching your breast.
- More of your areola will be visible above your baby’s top lip than below it.
- Your baby’s cheeks should not be sucking in.
- There should be no clicking noise during sucking.
- There should be no nipple pain, except for stretching sensation as your nipple adjusts to breastfeeding.
If it still hurts despite correct positioning, the reasons could be nipples are dry and cracks start to develop. Wearing loose clothing and avoiding soaps may help. Some even advocate leaving milk traces on the nipples as it encourages healing. Alternatively, lanolin-based creams can be applied in between feedings to relief soreness.
Problem 2: My breast feels lumpy and sore.
Plugged milk ducts can happen when the breast is not properly drained. Sometimes, a white dot or bleb on the nipple can be seen if the nipple is clogged. Common reasons resulting in plugged ducts includes poor latching, tight clothing or ill-fitted bra, abrupt decrease in feeding, engorgement and infections.
Solution: Aside from correcting the culprit, hot compress or warm shower together with massage should be able to break up the lump. Furthermore, allowing the little one to nurse more on the clogged side with varying position could also help to drain that area. If it helps, improve drainage by pumping or manually expressing after feedings.
Problem 3: I am feverish, with pain and redness at my breast.
Mastitis is often suspected if there are fever and flu-like symptoms. It is an inflammation of the breast commonly associated with bacterial infection. This condition is usually observed during the first six weeks post-delivery among mothers with cracked nipples, clogged milk ducts or engorgement.
Symptoms requiring medical attention include:
- A firm, red, and tender area of the breast
- Fever higher than 38.5˚C
- Muscle aches, chills, malaise, or flu-like symptoms
Solution: If bacterial infection is probable, a course of antibiotic would be necessary to clear mastitis. It is recommended to continue breastfeeding during antibiotic treatment to empty the breast. If the breast is lumpy, use heat coupled with massage to break up the lumps.
Problem 4: I don’t know why my breasts are in pain, but I see white, flaky skin on my nipples.
Yeast infection (candida infection) of the breasts or nipples appears with persistent itchiness, soreness or rash. Nevertheless, this condition remains poorly understood. Usually, the diagnosis is made on the basis of:
- Breast pain without any clear cause
- Previous episode of vaginal yeast infections in the mother
- History of yeast infections (oral thrush or diaper rash) in the baby
- Shiny or flaky skin on the affected nipple
- Test positive for yeast from skin scrapping of areolar or nipple, or breast milk
Solution: Treat both mother and baby for the yeast infection simultaneously. It is common to treat the mother with antifungal creams for the nipples; meanwhile, the baby would require antifungals to clear yeast infection in the oral cavity. In some instances, antifungal pills might be needed if topical cream is ineffective in clearing yeast infection in mother.
Conclusion
Pain and infections can make it unpleasant for mothers from breastfeeding. However, with the correct technique and necessary medical attention, breastfeeding can be satisfying for both the mother and the child. Hence, always consult healthcare professionals if ever in doubt.
Read more: Breastfeeding Issues and Solutions: Problematic Milk Supply (Part 2)
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by Joanne Lee
Multipotentialite. Loves creating and seeing ideas come alive. View all articles by Joanne Lee.
