Breast Feeding Problems

Breast Feeding Problems

Some babies and breast go well together right from the start, but there are many mothers and babies who have a range of breastfeeding problems for which they need help and information. This can be provided in the community by midwives, baby health sisters, mother and baby centers. The following offers suggestions for avoiding common problems, and overcoming problems if they do arise.

Breast Feeding Problem - Sore Nipples

Sore or cracked nipples can be a big problem, even once breast feeding is established. As your baby gets bigger, you'll need to adjust his position to help him continue to latch on properly. If your sore nipples persist past the first month or so, you may need to seek advice from a breast feeding counselor, lactation consultant or other qualified person.

When your baby's first tooth comes through, he may try to gnaw or bite your nipple for comfort. If he does this, take him gently off the breast and say no firmly. He'll soon get the idea that biting is not allowed. Also, you can try giving him other objects to bite on, such as a teething ring, to help relieve his sore gums.

Breast Feeding Problem - Engorgement

This can happen when the breast milk first comes in. It can also happen later, for example, when the baby starts to sleep for longer between the night feeds. When breasts are engorged they become hard, hot and painful. The best way to prevent engorgement is to feed on the first breast until it is soft, comfortable and lump free before offering the second breast. Allow the second breast to drip freely when feeding on the first breast.

Ask for help to make sure your baby is in the right position when he feeds. Gently hand express a small amount of milk to make the areola soft so the baby can get a good mouthful of your breast when attaching.

If your baby is sleepy, he might need reminding to feed more often. Unwrapping him to change his nappy or gently stroking his check and jaw will wake him up. If he only wants one breast, you may need to gently hand express the other breast for comfort. Cold compresses help. A pain reliever such as paracetamol may be taken until the discomfort passes.

Breast Feeding Problem - Lots of Breast milk

Some women find they have so much breast milk it causes temporary difficulties. Over supply is inconvenient, but usually resolves itself during the first six weeks. Your baby may splutter and gag at times when the breast milk lets down (some women fell the let down as a tingling sensation). You might also find your breasts leak between feeds. If you and your baby are coping, there is no need to do anything. As he grows and the milk flow settles you will find that he feeds without spluttering.

In the meantime, try hand expressing a little milk before feeding. Try using just one breast each feed. Cloth breast pads designed to keep the skin surface dry help with leaking problems. Multi colored tops are a good disguise too. Remember that this is temporary and will not continue for the entire period you breastfeed.

Breast Feeding Problem - Tender Lumps

If one of the tiny tubes that carries the breast milk becomes blocked, the milk can't flow well and you are likely to notice a lump which may become painful. You need to get the blockage moving so that any infection can clear, so try:

· hot washcloths or a hot bath.

· firmly but gently massaging the lump towards the nipple.

· feeding from the sore breast as much as you can, with the baby's chin pointing towards the lump

Extra rest also helps. If the lump persist or you feel feverish and ill, see your baby health sister or doctor as you may have mastitis. It is important to continue breast feeding even if you prescribed antibiotics, as continuing to breastfeed helps to clear the infection. If you are prescribed antibiotics while breastfeeding, some of the antibiotics may be passed on to your baby. Ask your doctor whether your baby may benefit from being given a preparation to prevent thrush or other infections during this time.

Breast Feeding Problem – Hygiene

You will find that, as a new mother, you are very aware of the need for safe, hygienic practices and this applies particularly to breast feeding. Careful hand washing is important, as is changing your breast >pads (if you're using them) after each feed to help prevent breast infections.

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