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All health experts unanimously agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest option for the baby. It is recommended to solely breastfeed upto 6 months of age after which foods are introduced but breastmilk is continued upto 1-2 years of age. Breastfeeding sometimes comes with its own set of challenges for the mother and the baby. Down below, we’ve listed some common problems and how to overcome them:
1. Sore/Cracked nipples
Nipples may commonly become sore and cracked during breastfeeding in the first few days. It can happen both due to extremely dry skin or too moist. Nipples can also become cracked if the baby is not latching and feeding properly.
Avoid synthetic nursing garments and use cotton ones as they allow ventilation and evaporation of sweat and fluids. The mother should also be using moisturising ointments regularly to prevent drying and cracking.
2. Breast engorgement
Breasts can become engorged if the produced milk accumulates in them. This breast engorgement and collection of milk can be because the feeding is not proper or the baby is not consuming enough milk. It can also be if extra milk is being produced.
3. Not enough milk
Sometimes, the mother may not be able to produce enough breast milk. This leads to feeding difficulties in the child. The child cannot get enough milk from the mother to sate hunger. The solution for this problem is fairly simple and is to continue breastfeeding. When the baby breastfeeds continuously and sucks on the mother’s nipples, it stimulates the body of the mother to produce more milk.
4. Blocked milk duct
The milk ducts in the breast may be blocked due to plugging of the duct. It feels like a lump in the breast and can be painful for the mother. Usually, it happens if the mother is producing more milk than is needed. It does not require any specific treatment and resolves on its own in a few days. Lightly massaging the area or applying ice on the affected area can help relieve the pain of the blockage. Making the baby feed from the affected side first is also helpful.
5. Mastitis
Mastitis is the inflammation of the breast tissue which can at times be due to any infection. Either one or both of the breasts can be involved in mastitis. The breast becomes red, swollen, painful and warm to touch on development of mastitis.
Sometimes antibodies may be needed for the treatment of mastitis. A small amount of antibiotics can be secreted in the breast milk when the mother is taking them but it does not cause any harm to the baby. Breastfeeding should be continued even if the mother has mastitis unless specifically prohibited by the doctor.
6. Breast abscess
Breast abscess is the development and collection of pus in the breast. It can develop on its own or can follow breast mastitis. The collection of pus is usually due to infection. Sometimes antibiotics alone can be enough to clear up the infection and the abscess. At other times, incision and drainage of abscess in the hospital may be needed. Breastfeeding from the normal breast should be continued even when the mother has breast abscess
