Breastfeeding can be challenging at times,
especially in the early days. But it is important to remember that you are not
alone. Lactation consultants are trained to help you find ways to make
breastfeeding work for you. And while many women are faced with one or more of
the challenges listed here, many women do not struggle at all! Also, many women
may have certain problems with one baby that they don’t have with their second
or third babies. Read on for ways to troubleshoot problems.
In case of Sore Nipples
Many moms report that nipples can be
tender at first. Breastfeeding should be comfortable once you have found some
positions that work and a good latch is established. Yet it is possible to
still have pain from an abrasion you already have. You may also have pain if
your baby is sucking on only the nipple.
What you can do
1.
If your baby is sucking only on the
nipple, gently break your baby’s suction to your breast by placing a clean
finger in the corner of your baby’s mouth and try again. (Your nipple should
not look flat or compressed when it comes out of your baby’s mouth. It should
look round and long, or the same shape as it was before the feeding.)
2. If you find yourself wanting to
delay feedings because of pain, get help from a lactation consultant. Delaying
feedings can cause more pain and harm your supply.
3. Try changing positions each time
you breast feed. This puts the pressure on a different part of the breast.
4. After breastfeeding, express a
few drops of milk
and gently rub it on your nipples with clean hands. Human milk has natural healing
properties and emollients that soothe. Also try letting your nipples air-dry
after feeding, or wear a soft cotton shirt.
5. If you are thinking about using
creams, hydrogel pads, or a nipple shield, get help from a health care provider
first.
6. Avoid wearing bras or clothes
that are too tight
and put pressure on your nipples.
7. Change nursing pads often to
avoid trapping in moisture.
8. Avoid using soap or ointments
that contain astringents or other chemicals on your nipples. Make sure to avoid
products that must be removed before breastfeeding. Washing with clean water is
all that is needed to keep your nipples and breasts clean.
9. If you have very sore nipples,
you can ask your doctor about using non-aspirin pain relievers.
10. Ask a lactation consultant for help to improve your
baby’s latch. Talk to your doctor if your pain does not go away or if you
suddenly get sore nipples after several weeks of pain-free breastfeeding. Sore
nipples may lead to a breast infection, which needs to be treated by a doctor.
