Breastfeeding is one of the most natural ways to feed and bond with your baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. After that, you can start supplementing with solids while breastfeeding for the remainder of your child’s first year, or longer as desired by you and your baby. Breast milk delivers all the nutrients and hydration your baby needs, strengthens their immune system, supports development, and deepens the parent-baby connection. However, even though breastfeeding is natural, there can still be some challenges. Fortunately, many of the common challenges have solutions, especially when addressed early.
Getting the Latch Right for Breastfeeding
An improper latch is one of the most common causes of discomfort while nursing. A good latch ensures your baby gets enough milk and prevents nipple pain. Signs of a proper latch include feeling pressure without sharp pain, your baby’s mouth covering a wide area of the areola (not just the nipple), and their chin pressing into your breast with their nose close by. If latching feels uncomfortable or painful, gently break the suction with your finger and try again. Using a C-hold (four fingers under your breast and thumb on top) can make the nipple more accessible. Touch your baby’s lower lip with your nipple and then bring their chin toward your breast to encourage a full latch.
Sore Nipples, Discomfort, and Mastitis
Mild tenderness is common in the early days, but ongoing or severe pain is not. Soreness may be due to latch issues, chapped skin, tongue-tie, or infection. Expressing a few drops of milk after feeding and letting it air dry can soothe irritation. If pain persists or if you notice swelling, redness, or flu-like symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Sometimes, pain could be due to mastitis, an infection often caused by poor breast drainage. Mastitis requires prompt treatment, which may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, rest, and frequent nursing. Cold compresses can also ease discomfort.
Dealing with Engorgement
Engorgement occurs when the breasts become overly full, making them hard, swollen, and painful. It’s more common in the early days after milk comes in or if feedings are delayed. Left untreated, engorgement can lead to clogged ducts or mastitis. To relieve it, nurse more often and start on the fuller side. Gently massage toward the nipple during feeds, use warm compresses beforehand to stimulate milk flow, and apply cold packs afterward to reduce swelling.
Managing Clogged Milk Ducts
Clogged ducts happen when milk flow is blocked, often creating a tender lump. This can result from skipping feedings, poor drainage, tight clothing, or not varying feeding positions. To clear a clog, continue nursing or pumping on the affected side, use warm compresses, massage the area gently, and change positions to help drain all parts of the breast. A warm shower before feeding can also help. If you develop a fever or the pain worsens, see your healthcare provider. Untreated clogs can lead to infections.
Low Milk Supply and Baby’s Intake
Many parents worry about whether their baby is getting enough milk. Signs your baby is getting enough intake include six or more wet diapers per day after the first week, frequent swallowing during feeds, contentment afterward, and steady weight gain. If you suspect your supply is low, it’s best to speak with your pediatrician. We can check your baby’s weight and suggest ways to boost supply, such as more frequent nursing, ensuring a proper latch, and avoiding unnecessary supplementation unless medically advised. While breastfeeding can have its hurdles, most families can work through them successfully with the right guidance and support. If you run into challenges, please contact our office. We provide breastfeeding support and lactation services to help you and your baby every step of the way.
