There are
a few minor problems that are common to many women who breast-feed.
Most of them can be easily addressed. It may just be a matter
of making small changes in the way you breast-feed.
Attend a
class, read a book, or watch a video to help you learn how
to overcome such problems. Also, talk with your health care
provider, a lactation specialist, and friends who have breast-fed
their babies.
Breast engorgement
is one common problem you may experience. Engorgement
may develop if your baby does not adequately remove the milk
form your breast. If this happens, your breasts will
feel hard, painful, and hot.
You can
prevent breast engorgement by:
- Breast-feeding
your baby 8-12 times in 24 hours.
- Not
giving your baby supplements of formula or water for the
first 3-4 weeks, unless your health care provider tells you
to provide these.
- Expressing
your milk if you miss any feedings.
- Weaning
your baby gradually when it is time to wean.
Another common
breast-feeding problem is nipple soreness. Luckily, you can
avoid this problem most of the time. However, many new mothers
find their nipples are tender for the first few days of nursing. You can prevent nipple tenderness by learning correct positioning techniques from your nurse, breastfeeding class or lacatation specialist. Air drying your nipples after every feeding is helpful, too. You may also use Lansinoh® cream which is pure lanolin cream and is recommeded to help with nipple soreness. Apply a very thin layer over nipples and wash off with water (however, it is safe enough to stay on) prior to breastfeeding your baby. You may obtain this cream at a local drugstore or in the Women’s Resource Center in Taubman on level 1, outside of the U of M Obstetrics Clinic. There are also comfort gel packs available for your sore nipples.
While mild
nipple soreness is common, blisters, cracking, bleeding, and/or pain
that continues during or in between feedings is not normal. Check
with a lactation specialist or your health care provider if
you have these problems.
