Topic

Common breastfeeding problems

Some mothers may have difficulty breastfeeding. When this happens, it is necessary to advise them and give them more support.

Breast Engorgement

Breast engorgement (stony breast) can appear in two situations: when the mother produces more milk than the baby needs or when the baby does not suck enough to empty the breast. This can occur either as soon as the "milk let down" or milk reflex occurs, in the first few days after giving birth, or several days later.

When the breasts are stoned, they become hard and full. The milk accumulates and thickens. This makes it difficult for them to come out, and small lumps can form.

With full breasts, the baby cannot latch on well, causing pain for the mother and irritation for the baby. In this case, you need to express to remove some of the milk.

Leader, to prevent breast engorgement, you should recommend that the mother:

  • start breastfeeding as soon as possible;
  • breastfeed the baby whenever he requests, emptying the breasts as much as possible, one at a time;
  • breastfeed with a good latch;
  • do not give other foods or liquids to the baby before six months of age;
  • always wear a bra.

In the event of engorgement, you can help the mother withdraw breast milk by expressing your concern and referring her to the health service.

Leader, if the mother is too nervous, find a way to calm her down to help the milk flow.

Nipple cracks 

Nipple cracks are the most common cause of pain when breastfeeding. It happens because of the wrong positioning of the baby in the lap and a bad latch. To prevent cracks, the mother should:

  • have a good latch;
  • do not use any product on the breasts;
  • do not let the wet lining touch the breast;
  • do not use a nipple protector;
  • before breastfeeding, if the breast is too full, express it.

If the mother has cracks, in addition to the care above, it is necessary that:

  • the baby is put to the breast as soon as he shows that he is hungry so that he does not suck with excessive force;
  • the breast is massaged before being offered to the baby, to facilitate the release of milk;
  • first, the baby is offered the least injured breast;
  • have variations in the position of breastfeeding, as shown in the photos.

 Mastitis 

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast, which may or may not turn into an infection. It is the result of breast engorgement or cracking. In mastitis, the affected part of the breast is painful, red, and hot. When there is an infection, the mother may experience aches and pains, a high fever (above 38ºC), and chills.

As the origin of mastitis is cracking or engorgement, the main precautions are:

  • breastfeed with a good latch and let the baby feed whenever he wants;
  • if the baby does not empty the breast, complete the milk removal by

When the mother has mastitis, she needs to go to the health service to be advised on the correct treatment. If there is a delay in starting treatment, a wound with pus can form, making treatment more complicated.

  

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