Solution To Breast-Feeding Problems

1. Baby wants to keep feeding all the time: This is normally caused because the baby is not positioned properly and there is insufficient supply of milk. In the initial days the baby may insist on feeding continuously simply because he enjoy it and it is very comforting. It could happen if the baby is trying to increase the supply of milk. If this activity is a change from his normal feeding pattern then it may return to normal in a day or two. Make sure that you position them properly and let them feed on demand.
2. Bleeding/sore /cracked/nipples: This happens because the baby is sucking your nipple and not the breast as a result of bad positioning. Dislodge the baby, by inserting your finger gently into his mouth to break his grip. The reposition your breast so that the breast not just the nipple is inside his mouth. Try different positions. Express milk and rub it on the nipples this will help it heal. Use the less sore side to feed.
3. White marks on sore nipples that don't seem to heal: This is known as thrush, it can appear when either you or the baby have taken a course of antibiotics or may appear without any particular reason. Both of you may have to take oral medication or use anti-fungal cream.
4. Flat nipples or lumpy, hard and full breasts: Primary engorgement takes place when milk first 'fills in' on the third or fourth day. Secondary engorgement takes place when the baby reduces the number of feeds he takes maybe, because he has started sleeping for longer hours at night. If this is case, your body will reduce the amount of milk it is producing. Feed the baby more often to reduce engorgement. If baby is unable to latch on properly, the express some milk to help it do so. Wear warm flannel clothing to ensure milk flow or have a warm shower before feeding to ensure the same. Using chilled cabbage leaves inside your bra can reduce the swelling.
5. Tender, small lump in the breast: Free movement of milk is stopped because of a block in some duct of the breast. This can happen because you have slept in funny position, sat for a few hours with the seat belt across your breast or a tight bra. Massaging the area or using warm compress on the area will help the lump to dissolve. If possible, position the baby in such a way that, his jaw is near the lump so he can feed and help dissolving the lump. Feed from the sore side, if it doesn't work express milk from the breast.
6. Inflamed, red areas on the breast; along with flu symptoms like temperature, aches, sore breast that is full: This is known as Mastitis, which is an inflammation of the breast when milk leaks into the breast tissue. Rest as much as possible, but continue to feed the baby, starting with the sore side. Use of warm and cold compress will reduce the swelling. If there is no improvement go to your doctor who will probably prescribe painkillers or a course of antibiotics.
7. Baby refuses to feed from the breast: There could be a number of reasons for this:

• A change in the taste of milk because of a change in diet or medication.
• You are using nipple cream.
• You have stopped using nipple shields.
• You are undergoing dental treatment or your periods are starting.

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