Breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your baby. But, for many mothers, it’s not the easiest. A large number of women have breastfeeding difficulties, so don’t feel alone. Here are some of the most common and some ideas to help you deal with them.
Sore Nipples
Your nipples will be tender at first. Keep them moisturized to help avoid the dry skin that makes them crack. There are special creams designed just for this problem that can help tremendously. Also, try rubbing a little breast milk on each nipple at the end of each nursing session. Another trick is to make sure your nipples are getting enough air. This is a tricky one, unless you are willing to walk around topless. But, even going braless with a loose fitting shirt on for a couple of hours a day can help. Your nipples will get tougher, and this problem should go away.
Baby who won’t latch on
Babies are not necessarily born knowing how to breastfeed, and may take some training before they can accomplish it properly. You will likely have a lactation consultant visit you in the hospital, who should teach you the mechanics of latching on. Be consistent with your baby if he’s having trouble – presenting the nipple the same way each time will help him learn. And, don’t keep feeding if he isn’t latched on properly. This will make your nipples more and more tender, and will not help him learn how to nurse properly.
Inverted Nipples
Sometimes even the slightest bit of a flat nipple can cause a baby to reject the breast. It’s even worse if you have one nipple that is not inverted, because this makes the baby only want to nurse on one side. You will need to “work your inverted nipple out of hiding" before having the baby nurse. Usually a breast pump works well for drawing the nipple out.
These are three of the most common breastfeeding issues, but there are others. A lactation consultant can be a godsend while you’re getting adjusted to breastfeeding. If you had a lactation consultant in the hospital, they will probably follow up with you after you are back home, and can recommend someone to work with you if you need further assistance. Many women have breastfeeding difficulties, but most can be overcome with help, so, if you really want to breastfeed, don’t give up!
Sarah is a 41 year old wife and mother of two boys and one girl. She spent many years as a manager in the corporate world, and gave it up to be a stay at home mom.
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