Breast Feeding

Breast milk has several advantages for newborn babies; it contains all the essential nutrients in the ideal proportions and provides natural protection against infection. Very few new mothers are unable to breast-feed and with the exception of HIV infection and active tuberculosis there are very few restrictions on breast-feeding for medical reasons.  In many cases a lactation specialist can help new mothers begin breast-feeding while you're still in the hospital. Some of the more common problems—pain, engorged breasts, or a low milk supply—can be overcome with persistence and support from your health care provider and family.

Breasts can become overly full and hard when the milk first starts. Breasts may also feel sore between feedings. Mild swelling and tenderness is normal for 24 to 48 hours. More severe engorgement is usually caused by not feeding correctly or often enough. Nipple pain is most often caused by the baby latching on to the nipple incorrectly.

Proper Breast-Feeding

• Hold the baby close to your breast (nose and chin should lightly touch your breast) to reduce tugging.

• Encourage the milk to come down before feedings (called "letdown") by gently massaging the breasts from the fleshy part down to the nipple.

• Try to get the baby to open wide and take a portion of the areola (the darkened area around the nipple), not just the tip of the nipple.

• Make sure the baby eats at least 8 times in 24 hours.

• Vary the baby's nursing positions.

• Wear a supportive bra.

Self-Care Steps for Breast-Feeding Problems

For engorgement

• Apply warm compresses to breasts for a few minutes to help the milk start to flow.

• Massage breast gently.

• Encourage frequent feedings (every 1 to 3 hours).

• Use cold compresses after feedings for up to 10 minutes for comfort and to reduce swelling.

• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used for pain relief; follow the manufacturer's instructions.

For sore nipples

• Do gentle breast massage to help bring milk down.

• Begin feedings on the least tender nipple.

• Encourage frequent feedings, limited to 10 to 15 minutes per breast.

• Apply 1 or 2 drops of breast milk to the nipples after feedings, to ease nipple discomfort.