8 Common Breastfeeding Problems and How to Solve Them

Team AckoFeb 9, 2024

There's a list of common breastfeeding problems, challenges that almost every new mom experiences. Breastfeeding is very important for the growth of infants right from their birth and they should be breastfed for at least 6 months. It is very important for their growth and also builds up their immunity in an amazing way.

Common breastfeeding problems and how to solve them:

Many new mothers feel that breastfeeding is the most difficult task as it takes a lot of patience and energy too. They come across many problems while breastfeeding their infants. So let’s know about such problems and see how to overcome these common problems in easy ways.

Problem of latching

Babies are also new to breastfeeding so it becomes difficult for them to latch your nipples when they are ready to be fed. Sit in a semi-reclining position and keep your baby on your chest. When the baby is hungry then he will automatically go down to your breast and latch on. You can gently massage your breasts so that milk will flow freely and baby will get milk in good quantity.

Sleeping babies

Babies have their own world where they spend most of their time in sleeping and dreaming about a fairyland. As soon as they feel full during the breastfeeding they tend to sleep in between. You can press your breast and nipples gently so that milk will flow and this will make your baby respond as he will start sucking and swallowing the breast milk. You can also stroke the chin of the baby gently in order to encourage sucking the nipple.

Breastfeeding Pain

The breasts of new mothers might be sensitive or tender and they might experience pain too when baby latches on to the nipples while feeding. You need to open your baby’s mouth wide open when he latches to your breast. The chin should be pressed into the breast and head should be tipped back so that nose should not be pressing against the breast. If you still experience problems then do consult a good gynecologist.

Baby chokes while breastfeeding

This is a very common problem as your baby has no idea that how much he should be gulping in one go due to a heavy and fast flow of milk from the breasts. You can try switching the sides after every two to three minutes. This will help in equalizing the flow. You can also switch the breasts after certain hours. Like if you have fed your baby on the right breast then next time you can feed her on the left breast. This will also help in maintaining the flow and baby will not choke every time.

Cracked nipples

This is not a good sign as this signifies that either your baby is not latching in a proper way or you have an infection on your nipple. Just get it checked by your doctor and start the treatment. Also, your doctor will tell some ways to prevent further cracking of the nipples.

Enlarged and Swollen Breasts

This happens when milk production ramps up about three days after the baby is born. This causes a lot of pain in your breast. Take a clean cabbage leaf and tuck it into your bra when you start feeding your baby. This will help in reducing the swelling in your breast and use your fingers to press the fluid-filled tissue around your nipples so that baby can latch easily. Frequent breastfeeding will solve the problem of swollen breasts in a natural way.

Bleeding Nipples

When nipples are suddenly removed from the baby’s warm mouth and they are exposed to the cold air then this causes vasospasm. Blood starts to flow abruptly from the nipples and they appear white in color. Apply a warm washcloth on your nipples or massage olive oil in the nipple area as this will make the blood flow back.

Baby Bites during the Breastfeeding

Babies tend to bite during the breastfeeding and this really hurts a lot. Just pull the baby close to you and this blocks his nose. Then baby will open his mouth to breathe or try to move away from your breast leaving them on his own. Make sure you don’t choke your baby while doing this process. You can also stick your finger gently at the corner of your baby’s mouth while he is nursing on, this will also prevent him from biting your nipples.

These are some of the easy and natural ways that can help you in overcoming the common challenges that are experienced during the breastfeeding. So just take care of these ways and enjoy your motherhood!

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.