Breastfeeding, or chestfeeding, offers important benefits for your baby and you. But it isn't always easy, especially as you and your little one are first getting the hang of it. Speed bumps can be a normal part of the journey. The good news is that they're usually manageable with the right support.
In my OB/GYN clinic, new parents often ask about these six common breastfeeding concerns. Here's a look at why they can happen and what you can do to address them:
1. Latch issues
A good latch, or attachment, to your breast helps your baby get milk out. On the other hand, a poor latch can make the task harder — even if you have a strong supply.
You can tell if your baby is latched well if their mouth is open wide with their lips turned out (like a fish). You should be able to hear them swallowing regularly, and you shouldn't be feeling any nipple pain.
Sometimes latch issues are just a matter of learning how to better position your baby during feedings. Less often, poor latches can stem from a medical problem. Ask your OB/GYN, pediatrician, family medicine doctor, or a lactation consultant for help to identify the cause and help you and your little one breastfeed more comfortably.
At Temple, breastfeeding specialists will help you and your baby get off to a healthy start — right there in your hospital room. And they’re available after you head home, too.
2. Low milk supply
You may not be producing enough milk if your baby:
- Doesn't seem to be gaining weight
- Has signs of dehydration, like too few wet or soiled diapers
- Takes a very long time (more than 50 minutes) to nurse
My patients are often surprised to learn that, in most cases, low milk supply actually stems from not breastfeeding (or pumping) enough. More frequent feedings or pumping sessions — at least every two to three hours — can usually give your supply a boost.
Drinking enough fluids, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough rest (easier said than done!) helps too.
If you're having trouble boosting your supply on your own, let your healthcare provider know. In some cases, low milk supply is related to a medical issue, such as:
- Hormone imbalances
- Having had breast reduction surgery
- Having had radiation therapy
- Taking certain medications
3. Nipple pain
It's not unusual to have some nipple sensitivity at the beginning of feedings for the first week or so. But pain is another story. And it tends to get worse when not addressed.
Sometimes pain is caused by a poor latch. In that case, learning other positioning techniques will often make a difference.
If nipple pain is caused by skin irritation or trauma, it may help to keep your nipples clean and allow them to air dry after feedings. You can also soothe existing irritation by:
- Moisturizing with lanolin ointment or expressed breast milk (but never vitamin E, which can be toxic to babies)
- Using cool or warm compresses (but avoid ice)
- Taking a mild pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
4. Blocked milk ducts
Blocked or clogged ducts happen when a milk duct doesn't drain properly. That can cause a tender or sore lump on your breast. (Usually only one breast is affected.)
Blocked milk ducts are often the result of not nursing often enough, or abruptly cutting back, which can cause breasts to become overfull.
At-home measures can often help unclog a duct and get the milk flowing again. I encourage my patients to:
- Nurse frequently (up to every two hours)
- Gently massage the area
- Apply warm compresses
- Wear a supportive bra that fits well (a bra that’s too tight can constrict milk ducts)
Blockages that don't get better within two days warrant a call to your healthcare provider.
5. Mastitis
Mastitis is a breast infection that causes part of the breast to become red, swollen, and tender. Like plugged ducts, mastitis usually only affects one breast. The swelling can put pressure on a person's milk ducts, slowing or blocking the passage of milk and making it painful.
It's safe to keep breastfeeding when you have mastitis, and doing so can actually help your milk flow again and ease discomfort. Gentle hand expression can help, too.
Applying a warm, moist compress; drinking plenty of fluids; and resting when possible will also help you feel better.
Sometimes mastitis gets better with at-home measures. But you should call your provider if it hasn't improved after 24 hours or if you have a fever or flu-like symptoms. These are signs that the infection is getting worse and may need antibiotics.
6. Bloody discharge
Some people notice pink, red, or brown streaks in their milk during the first few days of breastfeeding. It's usually due to increased blood flow to your breasts as your body starts making milk. Though it can look alarming, it's usually not cause for concern. But let your provider know if the problem sticks around for more than a week.
Get breastfeeding support
Whether in the hospital or at home, Temple's Maternity Care department and breastfeeding support program are here to help. So don't hesitate to reach out when you need guidance. Give us a call at 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or schedule an appointment online.
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