Common breastfeeding problems
Read time: 5 minutes
From sore nipples and leaking breasts, to problems latching on, many mums encounter breastfeeding issues in the early stages. Just like any new skill, breastfeeding can take a while to master. But it is well worth persevering as it provides tailor-made nutrition for your baby.
For sore or cracked nipples to prevent soreness try squeezing out a drop of milk after you feed and rubbing it into your skin, letting your nipples dry before you cover them1.
After birth, it’s common for your breasts to become full and swollen, due to your body producing an abundance of milk, and increased blood flow to the area. Feeding your baby or expressing milk will relieve this fullness2.
You can leak milk due to a reflex which is triggered by a baby’s cry – whether yours or someone else’s! Don’t worry it’s most common during the first few weeks of breastfeeding, while your body adapts to your baby’s feeding routine2.
Can all women breastfeed3?
Yes, almost every woman can breastfeed. However, breastfeeding can take time and practice to perfect, just like any new skill, and it’s not uncommon for new mothers to experience breastfeeding problems, like breastfeeding pain. But the more time you spend in close contact with your baby, the more you’ll get to know and understand each other’s signals. Your breast milk is the only food that’s designed for your baby and can help to protect them against infections. That’s why it’s especially important to persevere in the early stages.
If you’re having any sort of issues with breastfeeding, speak to your midwife or health visitor as soon as you can. You’ll find that there are many local breastfeeding support networks that will be happy to offer help and support too. Or you can talk to one of our expert feeding advisors at Aptaclub, anytime, on 0800 996 1000. Here are some common problems and advice we have to help you have the most successful breastfeeding experience you can.
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Common Feeding Problems
THE
SCIENCE
BEHIND
YOUR LET-DOWN REFLEX
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Your let-down reflex is essentially the reflex in your body which releases the milk in your breasts, making it available to your baby. This can be triggered by your baby sucking at your breast, or the sound of a baby crying. These actions prompt your body to release oxytocin hormones into your bloodstream, which in turn causes the cells around your milk ducts to contract, and your breasts to push out or ‘let down’ your breast milk5.
Last reviewed: 13th July 2020
Reviewed by Nutricia’s Medical and Scientific Affairs Team
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Questions about feeding and nutrition?
Our midwives, nutritionists and feeding advisors are always on hand to talk about feeding your baby. So if you have a question, just get in touch.