Breastfeeding is a great way to nurture your baby. However, it may not be as relaxing as you think. This section addresses common breastfeeding problems and offers advice on how to solve them.

Breastfeeding Problems

Many breastfeeding problems are caused by the baby not latching on properly. If you learn to latch correctly, you can avoid some troublesome issues. That way, the baby can efficiently empty the entire breast.

But how do you know if your baby is latching correctly? Here are some points to keep in mind.

• When lifting the baby, make sure that the ears, shoulders, and hips are in line and that the nose and nipples are at the same level.
• The baby’s chin and nose tip touch the breast.
• The baby’s lips curl outward, and a soft swallowing sound can be heard.
• When properly fitted, the baby’s head will tilt back slightly to allow for good breathing and swallowing.
• At first, short, fast suctioning and swallowing movements are seen, followed by slow, forceful suctioning movements with pauses.

Engorgement

Breastfeeding is based on the principle of supply and demand. Engorgement is an imbalance between the supply and demand of breast milk, resulting in more milk production than the baby is currently drinking from the breast. This can result in sore breasts and problems with breastfeeding. The first few days of breastfeeding may be more painful as the baby, and you are still getting used to each other. Ensuring that the baby drinks frequently and long enough can help reduce engorgement during the first week.

Engorgement may also be caused by the baby’s inability to latch properly. Pumping and occasional feedings can help to reduce the strain on the breasts. Allow enough time for the baby to empty the breast.

Massaging sensitive areas and changing the nursing position can also help. Apply a cool cloth to the sore breast to relieve pain after breastfeeding.

Sore and Cracked Nipples

During the first few days of breastfeeding, the nipples are pretty sensitive. This is quite normal, and the baby needs to get used to the strong suction. Fortunately, your nipples will soon get used to it, and the sensitivity and soreness will quickly disappear.

Are you still suffering from this problem, and is it interfering with breastfeeding? If so, the nipple may be cracked. Please do something about it yourself. Taking care of your nipples will give you peace of mind. You should pay attention to the following

• Do not wash them, specially before and after breastfeeding, but only rinse them with water when showering or bathing.
• Squeeze a few drops from the breast after nursing and apply to the nipple. This will help maintain skin elasticity.
• Use nursing pads and bras that are not made of synthetic materials.
• Soap and disinfectants should be avoided as they dry out the skin and nipples.

Decreased Milk Production

Many mothers suffer from poor milk supply. You can tell if your baby is producing enough milk by the following signs:

• The diaper is only wet once or twice a day in the first few days.
• You can hear him swallowing while breastfeeding.
• 6 to 8 diapers are wetted daily from the third to the fourth day.
• The baby gains 120-210 grams per week from the fourth day of life.
• The baby drinks an average of 6-10 times every 24 hours.

Are you still having issues? Then you may want to call a lactation consultant. They will work with you to determine where the problem lies in breastfeeding and advise how to get on the right track. Then you can enjoy breastfeeding again!