Common Problems with Breastfeeding
By: Tsou JinyeuTotal Views: 160, Word Count: 525,
When you deliver your baby, it brings you so much of joy, joy that has no words to describe. With a baby there are many responsibilities as well. The first responsibility is to feed your baby and what better way to keep your baby healthy than breastfeeding. Breastfeeding however, has its own set of problems and also many benefits. Here are some of the common problems that women face with breastfeeding:
ENGORGEMENT - Two to five days after delivery, your milk comes in. Your breasts become swollen and uncomfortable and it can be hard for your baby to latch on. This usually passes within 24 hours. Feeding your baby frequently will help you with this situation. Also, applying hot compresses or hot flannel before each will help the milk flow and soften the nipples making each feed easier.
SORE NIPPLES - The main reason you are likely to suffer with sore nipples is because your baby isn’t latching on correctly, which can make feeding difficult. To alleviate the pain squeeze out a little breast milk after each feed and rub it over the nipple - it has very good anti-infective properties. You can also apply gels or creams for sore nipples. You can purchase one easily over the counter or ask your doctor to prescribe you one.
BLOCKED DUCTS - With blocked ducts you will feel a lump on the areola of your breast or notice a hard red patch towards the outside of your breast. Keep offering your baby the affected breast and massage the lump towards your nipple as you feed.
THRUSH - Thrush is a fungal infection which can cause sharp stabbing pains. It is also a less common cause of sore nipples. Your baby will also get white patches on her tongue or in her mouth too. If this has happened, then you will need to seek medical attention and get treated by your doctor.
MASTITIS - If you are unlucky enough to develop mastitis then you will have the following symptoms. You will feel as if you’ve got the flue. You may have temperature and your breasts will feel sore. Try to rest and take in plenty of fluids. It is important to continue with breastfeeding your baby, stopping it will only make matters worse. Mastitis usually results from insufficient drainage of the breast. See your doctor if the condition persists because you will need antibiotics to treat this condition.
All the above mentioned problems can be solved with proper care. You must remember while breastfeeding comes with its set of problems it also has it benefits. Breastfeeding helps both the mother and the baby in many ways. Breastfeeding helps provides anti-bodies to your baby thus making your baby develop a good and strong immune system.
Breastfeeding helps you to shed the weight you have gained post delivery and also helps your uterus get back to its normal state. With breastfeeding you are less likely to get breast and ovarian cancer, you at a lower risk with heart problems. So although breastfeeding may seem to be a daunting and exhausting experience in the beginning, it is very beneficial in the long run.
About the Author
Dr Tsou Jinyeu is a well known gynecologist and has been in this field since 1995. His special interests are – genetic and birth defects, high risk obstetrics, lupus in pregnancy, premature labour, premature delivery, triplets and ultrasound diagnosis. He is graduated from the University Of Illinois College Of Medicine. Nowdays he is working as a medical doctor at Elmhurst Loyola Center for Health.
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