About Postnatal Breastfeeding Problems

Breastfeeding is very important for both the mother and the baby. Apart from the process of breastfeeding being the source of the baby’s nutrition, breastfeeding is necessary for creating a bond between the mother and the baby. In some cases both the child and mother may experience some challenges that come with postnatal breastfeeding. Tere are a few common problems experienced during the first stages of breastfeeding.

Sore or cracked nipples 

This condition may occur when a mother has little or no knowledge of positioning her infant in the proper breastfeeding position. Instead of the pressure being exerted entirely on the area around the nipple while the baby is suckling it is exerted on the nipple itself, causing the nipple to swell and crack. This is very painful. To avoid this, ensure that the baby is latched in a proper position.
 
Engorgement

This occurs when the breast swells and becomes full with milk. This also causes the blood vessels around the breast to get filled up with blood and lymph fluids. This happens when there is a large production of milk by the mammary glands and the baby breastfeeds in smaller quantities. The swelling causes the breast to develop some node-like swellings. A woman with this condition will in some cases experience high fever and a lot of discomfort.

Breast infections

Breast infections can occur due to mastitis. This is a condition that occurs due to the clogging of the milk duct with milk. The mother needs to ensure that she completely drains each breast during a feeding to avoid the clogging of the milk ducts, which in turn can cause infection. If the condition worsens, a visit to the doctor may be necesary.

Depression

Many mothers suffer from postnatal depression, which may cause breastfeeding problems due to low milk production. This will mostly affect mothers who have given birth to premature babies or babies with difficulty latching.