3 Common Breastfeeding Problems

Breastfeeding is necessary in providing nourishment to newborns. Mothers are the suppliers of natural milk that every infant needs in order to grow and develop. It is an instinct gesture, and not an obligation, for mothers to breastfeed their babies. I don’t think there are many mothers who do not want or plan to breastfeed their own children. The only thing that can hinder them from doing so is something biological. Let’s talk about the most common issues in regards to breastfeeding. We will also discuss how to solve each problem so you know what to do or what to share to other mothers who are experiencing some breastfeeding issues.

1. Thrush

Newborns are very prone to have thrush. Oral thrush is common for young children, most especially infants. This is fungi that grow on tongue. When your baby has this kind of condition, the bacteria is easily transferred to your nipples during breastfeeding. It is a painful feeling that needs to be given medical attention right away.

Fortunately, thrush on a mother’s nipple is easy to treat. So, is the oral thrush on your baby. That’s why both the mother and the baby must be treated and to avoid having the infection back.

2. Cracked or Sore Nipples

First time mothers experience a lot of new things that may make them feel uncomfortable. They usually are not used to those changes but adjustment is needed, even the period of breastfeeding.

It is common to have blisters around the areola and nipples. Sometimes, they bleed, crack and sore. These can cause discomfort, and pain, too. The main cause of this is actually how your baby suckles on the nipple. You cannot blame your child for that, but reposition your baby when needed. Make sure that he or she suckles on the entire areola, not just the nipple. Also, alternate your nipples from one to the other. If you are not sure about correct positioning, console from an expert, technically a lactation consultant, for some tips and advice.

3. Plugged Ducts and Mastitis

Ducts that are plugged are not as common as the two breast problems. Not all mothers who breastfeed or lactate experience this. If you are one of those moms to have it, it is an unfortunate situation.

The primary symptom of clogged ducts is when you feel or notice a lump that is hard and tender to touch. This happens if the breasts do not completely get drained of milk. It is also caused by improper latching, not reliable pump, as well as other common health conditions like cold and stress. When you feel some body pain, fever and other common symptoms, the tendency is that you may have mastitis, which is another problem for breastfeeding.

Plugged or clogged ducts and mastitis are easy to get cured. In fact, they can go away on their own as long as you regularly breastfeed your infant. But you surely want your plugged ducts to get treated as soon as possible. What you do is to gently massage the area that is tender, because that is definitely clogged, until the milk starts to flow. You may also warm up your breast before and after breastfeeding to loosen clogs.

Remember that after birth and during breastfeeding, many body changes happen, but some issues should be concerned about, just like the breastfeeding problems discussed here. If necessary, get help from a professional one, a doctor or a lactation consultant. But do not panic or worry too much as you do not want to stress yourself out, which may give you more problems that may be worse.

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