8 Most Common Breastfeeding Problems And Solutions

Last updated on August 20, 2024

Summary

Breastfeeding is a remarkable bonding experience between a mom and her newborn. But it can be sometimes accompanied by hurdles that require patience, understanding, and expert guidance. From the discomfort of sore nipples to the often undiagnosed issue of tongue-tie, and the occasional infections that might arise, these common problems during breastfeeding can momentarily overshadow the joy of nurturing your little one.

Here we'll delve into 8 common breastfeeding problems and solutions to overcome them, shedding light on their causes and symptoms.

1. Latching

Poor latching can be painful, but don’t get discouraged. A common problem is that a baby’s latch can be too shallow. A shallow latch can put too much suction on the nipples, which can be painful and even cause cracking.

Our advice:
Continue to practice latching with your baby. Try to get your baby's mouth around most or all of the areola, the darkened part of the breast surrounding the nipple.

You can also try to:

• Tilt your baby’s chin down
• Tickle the upper lip with your nipple
• Wait for a yawn-like response before placing your nipple in your baby's mouth

If you think the latch is bad, gently pull your baby away and give it another try.

2. Engorged breasts

It's common to experience some breast engorgement in the first weeks after giving birth. This is due to an increase in milk production and extra blood flow, which causes vascular congestion and swelling. It can be accompanied by a low-grade fever too, but this doesn't necessarily mean you have an infection. Symptoms include firm, swollen, hard breasts that may be warm and painful to the touch. Your baby may have difficulties latching.

Our advice:

• Before feedings, encourage milk flow by putting a warm, moist washcloth on the engorged breast for 10-20 minutes. A warm shower can also help.
• Feed your newborn baby frequently, at least 8-12 times in 24 hours. If only one breast is engorged, offer that one first.
• Make sure your baby is latching well. If your breast is too hard, latching may be difficult. Try hand expressing or pumping a little bit of milk before nursing.
• If your baby is unable to breastfeed, hand express or pump frequently.
• Between feedings, put cold compresses or an ice pack on your breasts to help reduce swelling.

Breast engorgement typically decreases as your body adjusts. If it doesn't go away in a couple of weeks or you experience symptoms of mastitis, contact your provider or a licensed lactation consultant for guidance.

3. Sore nipples

Sore nipples are very common and vary in terms of severity. Some sensitivity is normal, especially early on. Many mothers experience a "pins and needles" sensation during let-down, which can be uncomfortable. This discomfort often improves with time.

Another source of sore nipples can be poor latching. A shallow latch from your baby can cause pain and bruising of your nipples.

Our advice:

• Continue to practice latching with your baby
• Try different breastfeeding positions
• Consider using a nipple shield under the guidance of your provider

If pain continues or you experience any of the conditions above, reach out to your provider or a licensed lactation consultant for guidance.

4. Low milk supply

Low milk supply is one of the most common reasons for stopping breastfeeding. A nationwide research study found that 50% of mothers stopped breastfeeding because of their perceived insufficient milk supply.

Our advice:
Ensure that your baby is properly latching to your breast. Offer both breasts at each feed, switch breast sides frequently, and express milk after breastfeeding.

5. Tongue-tie

Tongue-tie is a condition that occurs from birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion. Babies with tongue-tie have a short frenulum, which restricts the tongue's movement.

Our advice:
Research on tongue-tie is ongoing. Consult with your provider or a licensed lactation consultant to help with tongue-tie.

6. Plugged milk ducts

Plugged milk ducts are normal but can be painful. This occurs when the milk doesn’t drain properly, causing it to build up.

Our advice:

• Consider using a warm compress to help relieve the sore area
• Ensure you are wearing a well-fitting bra
• Gently massage the suspected plugged duct area

If lumps persist in your breasts, talk with your healthcare provider.

7. Breast infections (mastitis)

Mastitis is characterized by abnormally swollen and inflamed breast tissue and can be accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

Our advice:
If you suspect you have mastitis or any type of infection and have not gotten better, consult your provider right away.

8. Yeast infections

Yeast overgrowth and infection most often occur on the skin of your breasts and nipples.

Our advice:

• Washing your own and your baby’s hands often
• Washing all clothes that have come in potential contact with the yeast in hot water
• Drying your nipples between feeds

Speak with your provider for additional ways to manage yeast infections.