Problems During Breasteeding

Breastfeeding your baby is one of the best things you can do for him, but sometimes problems do arise. Make sure that you keep your breasts clean and dry, wear a nursing bra and act at once if your nipples become sore or cracked. Nursing should not hurt baby or mom.

Cracked nipples are one of the biggest complaints from breastfeeding mothers. If not dealt with properly, sore nipples can become cracked. You may feel a shooting pain as your baby suckles. Keep your nipple dry with breast pads and apply lanolin cream or other ointment that is safe for the baby to consume. You might find comfort in using a breast pump to supplement your baby until your nipples are healed.

Engorgement occurs when your breasts become overlly full. Your breasts will become sore and will be hard to the touch. If your breasts become engorged, your baby will not be able to latch on properly, which might lead to other problems. Wear a nursing bra to minimize discomfort and gently express some of the breastmilk, either by hand or with a pump, before your baby nurses. Taking a warm bath will help releive discomfort and encourage your milk to flow. Remember to nurse your baby frequently to avoid engorgement.

Blocked ducts occur when one of your milk ducts becomes blocked and causes a hard red patch on the outside of the breast where the duct lies. Wearing tight clothing can cause the ducts to become blocked, as can engorgement. You can prevent this by feeding your baby often and making sure that he empties the breast at each feeding. Make sure that your bra fits and is not too tight. If you get a blocked duct, offer the affected breast first.

Mastitis occurs when a blocked duct is not properly treated and creates an infection. You will notice the same symptoms of blocked ducts and you might experience a fever. You should not stop breastfeeding, because you need to empty the breast. Nurse frequently and empty the breast at each feeding. If you suspect mastitis, contact your caregiver. Your doctor might prescrive antibiotics to clear up the infection.

A breast abcess can develop if blocked ducts or mastitis is not treated. You might feel feverish and have a tender, shiny red patch on your breast. Your healthcare provider will attempt to treat the infection with antibiotics and if this fails, the abcess will need to be drained surgically. Ask your doctor if you can continue breastfeeding during this time.

If you are experiencing sore nipples, treat them properly to minimize or eliminate the development of further problems. Make sure that your baby has the nipple AND areola well into her mouth at each feeding. Take your baby off of your breast gently after each feeding. Do not yank her away-break the seal by placing a finger in her mouth and popping the seal she has on your breast. Make sure that your nipples are dry between feedings and do not put a bra on over wet nipples. If a nipple becomes sore, allow the breast to rest for 24 hours or unti the soreness is gone. Express milk from the affected to breast to eliminate any chances of engorgement.