Overcoming Breastfeeding Problems
By Julie Patton RN, IBCLC
Helping breastfeeding mothers is a rewarding and satisfying job. In my years of work as a lactation consultant, I have had the privilege of assisting many new mothers as they learn the skills and techniques that lead to a rewarding long-term breastfeeding relationship. Unfortunately, I have also witnessed early cessation of breastfeeding due to problems – problems that could easily be avoided. Here are some common complications, and solutions.
Nipple Pain
Painful, cracked nipples are probably the most dreaded – and most easily avoided –complication in the early days of breastfeeding. Incorrect latch-on is the leading cause of nipple damage. Nipples can crack after just a few breastfeeding sessions if the baby is not latched on correctly. New mothers will then experience latch-on pain with every feeding while the nipple heals. Fortunately, breastfeeding can continue during the healing process. Once the latch-on is corrected, no further damage is occurring. Ointments and other products are designed expressly for the purpose of hastening healing, and a nurse or lactation expert can assist the new mother with both positioning and tips for healing.
Another source of nipple pain is a yeast infection on the nipple. This fungal growth can also occur in the milk ducts and cause pain throughout the breasts. This condition must be treated by a physician and requires medication for both the mother and baby. Call your doctor and your baby’s doctor if you suspect a yeast infection.
Plugged Milk Ducts and Mastitis
Although many women never experience a plugged milk duct or breast infection, some women are plagued by both. Plugged milk ducts occur for a variety of reasons, including missed feedings or tight clothing that constricts the breast. Fortunately, plugged ducts are easily treated at home using warm compresses, massage and continued breastfeeding or pumping. Most plugged ducts resolve just as quickly as they occur, and no further treatment is necessary. Women who experience plugged ducts once are usually very alert to later occurrences; therefore, they are able to begin treating themselves very quickly when symptoms occur. Some women develop mastitis, which is an actual infection requiring a physician’s care. Mastitis causes fever and flu-like symptoms, along with severe inflammation and breast tenderness. Antibiotics will be prescribed, along with continued breastfeeding to soften and drain the breast. In rare cases, an abscess may develop. This is an emergency which usually requires surgery. Fortunately, breast abscesses are very uncommon.
Inadequate Milk Supply
Of all the possible breastfeeding complications, insufficient milk supply is probably the least understood. The process of milk production is actually very simple, and when left to nature, works very smoothly. Unfortunately, practices such as the early introduction of formula and scheduled feedings interfere with natural milk production. Breastfeeding works best when a mother feels confident responding to her baby’s cues. Milk production based on supply and demand is nature’s way. Many helpful tools exist to assist new parents with assessing their baby’s intake. Hospitals often provide new parents with charts to record feedings and diaper changes at home, and most doctors schedule frequent weight checks in the early weeks. If problems with milk supply do develop, a trip to the lactation consultant will usually solve the problem. It is uncommon for a mother to be physically unable to provide enough milk for her baby. So don’t worry!
Using the support services available will help ensure a satisfying and trouble-free breastfeeding experience. Education for both the mother and father before delivery is especially helpful. Many sources are available to you – use them, and enjoy your breastfeeding adventure!
Julie Patton has been an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for 11 years. She works with mothers and babies at Huntsville Hospital’s Breastfeeding Support Services.
