We are all in this journey together called motherhood, but our paths are never the same. Breastfeeding lends a beautiful opportunity for a mom to bond with her newborn. But, this moment is often marred with livid episodes. It does bring along a wave of challenges that can make a new mom anxious and unknowing of what to do. Here’s a look at some common Breastfeeding Problems related to breastfeeding and how you can deal with them.
# 1 – Low Milk Supply
One of the common breastfeeding problems is low milk supply, most moms worry that they are not producing enough milk, in reality, that’s not the case. By nature, you produce enough for the baby to feed. Only if your baby isn’t gaining weight and your doctor thinks the little one doesn’t fall within the weight curves designed by the World Health Organisation, then, there’s a problem. Seek expert help if that happens.
Suggestion – Nurse your baby regularly. Consult with your ob-gyn on what foods can help increase milk supply. Traditionally, saunf, blessed thistle and aniseeds are known to increase the quality of the breastmilk. If consuming a concoction or ‘karha’ made with these isn’t too appealing, you can also consume caffeine-free teas that are infused with these ingredients. Try The Moms Co. Tea for Nourishing Feeds which has all the ingredients necessary for increasing the quantity of milk and provide relief from gastrointestinal problems for the baby.
# 2 – Cracked or sore nipples
Cracked and sore nipples are often the result of improper positioning during feeding. This occurs when the baby’s jaws and gums put added pressure around the nipple. The problem can also arise when you use breast pumps incorrectly or don’t keep the skin around the nipple healthy.
Suggestion – When feeding your baby, ensure that she latches on correctly. Use a breast pump flange of the correct size and operate the pump at normal suction levels to avoid excessive pressure on the nipples. Also, when pained by soreness, use warm water to help provide relief to your breasts. Avoid harsh soaps and instead, soothe the nipples with a nourishing cream like The Moms Co Nipple Butter. The lanolin-free and fragrance-free formulation is made with completely safe and natural ingredients that won’t harm your baby when you nurse. It has Calendula Oil, which with its strong anti-inflammatory properties soothes the area and reduces pain. You will also find the goodness of Kokum Butter which helps restore elasticity and prevents dryness of skin.
# 3- Engorgement
When the tissues of the breast overfill with milk or other fluids, it causes the breasts to feel full and painful. Your nipples will appear flattened and tight. This is usually temporary and occurs due to skipped feeding sessions or delayed nursing, and is one of the common breastfeeding problems.
Suggestion – Nurse your baby at regular intervals from both breasts. Nurse her during the day as well as in the night to ensure that the milk being produced is emptied on time. Between feedings, express milk either manually or by using a breast pump.
# 4 – Leaking
It’s common for new moms to experience milk leakage. The problem occurs typically in the first few weeks after delivery, when the glands are still getting adjusted to the baby’s feeding needs or when the milk production levels are still being recognized. Though not troublesome, leaking can be embarrassing.
Suggestion – To avoid leaking breasts, ensure that you feed your baby on time and that you don’t miss nursing sessions. Place disposable nursing pads inside the cups of your bra to absorb excess milk and prevent wetness from showing through your clothes. Avoid plastic-lined pads as they could trap moisture and result in soreness.
#5 Mastitis
Often moms develop a bacterial infection in their breast, causing a great deal of discomfort to a nursing mom. A crack in the nipple lets bacteria enter the breast, resulting in an infection. Inadequate emptying of the breast can also cause infection. If the breasts are not fully emptied, the fullness can put pressure on the adjacent tissues, thereby causing pain & swelling.
Suggestion – The best way to treat the infection is with medications. Seek expert advice on the right kind of antibiotics. Additionally, hot compresses and frequent emptying can help soothe your discomfort. You should continue breastfeeding when you have mastitis.
Always seek expert advice if your problem persists. If you have tips of your own, please share them down below.