Breastfeeding - whats normal?
Breastfeeding is a cycle that is constantly changing. The journey is not the same from start to finish or from one journey to the next. BUT one thing that is sure to be expected can be some initial discomfort due to sensitive nipples and constantly latching/pumping
In the first week or two, nipple pain and discomfort is completely normal. Our nipples are getting use to constantly being used for nursing, pumping, etc. HOWEVER, once the first week or two are over the pain and discomfort should disappear. Some women often use a nipple shield in the first few days to assist their nipples to adjust to the discomfort they are experiencing. Nipple shields can also be used with pre-mature babies to ensure they are able to latch and to learn to breastfeed. The nipple shield always them to pause and return to the same position without any issues.
If pain/discomfort are noted this typically indicates an issue that needs addressed. This discomfort can come from many things:
Engorgement
Pain and discomfort can be eliminated by emptying the breasts more frequently. Extended periods of time between feeds/pumps can lead to more issues that start as engorgement.
Latch/positioning issues
Changing the position of the baby on the nipple can be a simple solution to fixing the discomfort that a mother may be experiencing.
A clogged duct
A clogged duct is something that cannot always be prevented. Ways to reduce your risk can be frequently removing milk by nursing or pumping and massaging breasts frequently to feel for lumps during warm showers.
Mastitis
Common signs of mastitis are inflammation of the breasts, red streaks, hard/red areas, and fevers/chills. Clogged ducts that are not removed or engorgement that is not addressed can lead to mastitis.
Inverted/flat nipples
These are two things that cannot be corrected, as you cannot change your nipples. However, other methods can be used to help with nursing. For example, some women might use a nipple shield to help assist in shaping the nipple.
Oral thrush
Some babies develop oral thrush/yeast infection. These yellow/white patches of the tongue, lips, or cheeks can transfer to your nipples and cause pain.
All of these matters are serious and if you think that you are experiencing something like this, you should call your doctor and a lactation counselor for the best way to resolve the symptoms you are experiencing.
As stated above, the pain and discomfort should be short lived. Here are strategies that reduce your risk of many of these issues:
Keeping nipples moist to avoid dry, cracked nipples.
Frequently removing milk, either nursing or pumping.
Massaging breasts during warm showers and constantly feeling breasts for lumps/bumps.
Using warm compresses while feeding to help milk flow.
Changing positions and sides while nursing to reposition baby and where milk is being removed.
These are general recommendations to use for reducing nipple/breast pain. These may not work for ALL women, therefore, if you are experiencing any of these issues reach out to your doctor or lactation counselor for more Individualized support.