Breast-feeding: breast problems
One of the down-sides of breast-feeding is the possible problems encountered with your breasts; occasionally causing pain or discomfort.
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| Problem | Prevention | Cure |
|---|---|---|
| Cracked nipples: Shooting pain when the baby suckles. | Feed little and often in the first few days. Keep the nipples dry by using disposable breast pads or clean hankies. | Keep feeding if at all possible. If necessary, express the milk by hand (not by pump), and feed the baby by bottle or spoon. |
| Engorgement: Extremely full and painful breasts with a swollen areola. | Feed your baby frequently and try to encourage him to empty your breasts regularly. | Have a hot bath and gently express some milk, or encourage it to flow by massaging towards the nipple. |
| Blocked duct: A hard red patch on the outside of the breast where the duct lies. This can often occur as a result of engorgement or when your bra or clothes are too tight. | As for engorgement. Wear a properly fitting bra and keep feeding the baby in different positions throughout the day. | Frequent feeding, offering the breast with the blocked duct first so that it is properly emptied. Express the breast if necessary. |
| Mastitis: Acute infection of the milk duct resulting in a pus-filled lump. | As for a blocked duct. | Antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. If this fails it will have to be drained surgically. You can, however, continue to feed, even if you need an operation. |
| Breast abcesses: This infection, which results from an untreated blocked duct, can make you feel feverish; you may have a shiny red patch on your breast. | As for a blocked duct. | As for a blocked duct, although you will probably be prescribed antibiotics by your doctor. Unless instructed otherwise, you can continue to feed your baby from the affected breast. |
New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard
Posted 30.06.2010
See more in the dossier: Breast care for breast-feeding
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