Why Breastfeeding Hurts: Understanding the Causes and Finding Relief from pain while breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is often portrayed as the most natural and beautiful experience between a mother and her baby. However, many new moms are taken aback by the reality that pain while breastfeeding occur sometimes, although not normal is very common. If you're experiencing discomfort, know that you're not alone, and there are solutions to help you. this blog, we'll explore the common reasons why breastfeeding can hurt and provide some tips for relief.

1. The Learning Curve: Baby's Latch

One of the most common causes of breastfeeding pain is an improper latch. In the early days, both you and your baby are learning how to breastfeed effectively. A shallow latch, where the baby is not taking enough of the breast into their mouth, can cause intense nipple pain and damage. You should feel a gentle tug, not pain. If it feels painful, try to reposition your baby by ensuring their mouth covers more of the areola, not just the nipple.

Remember, you don't expect a toddler to learn to walk without holding your hand, learn to drive without lessons or pass an exam without being taugfht the subject, breastfeeding in no different.

2. Nipple Trauma and Cracking

Sensitive nipples can easily become sore, cracked, or even bleed, especially in the early weeks. This can result from a poor latch, but also from frequent and prolonged nursing sessions. Using nipple creams or ointments designed for breastfeeding can help soothe and heal the skin.A word of warning, we know that some people are sensitive/ allergic to some nipple creams, this can look like red, itchy or niggling feeling. If you are using nipple cream please remember to wipe off as this can cause baby to slip of the breast. Also, using breast milk and keeping the wound moist, allowing the wound to heal from the inside out and ensuing subsequent feedings have a deep latch will promote healing.

3. Engorgement

Engorgement occurs when your breasts become overly full of milk, making them hard, tight, and painful. This often happens in the first few days postpartum as your milk comes in. Engorged breasts can make it difficult for your baby to latch properly, leading to even more discomfort. To relieve engorgement, try expressing a small amount of milk before feeding to soften the breast, making it easier for your baby to latch.

if you have had a c-section or fluids while in labour you will have excess fluid, this can apper ion your feet, hands and yes your breasts. Lymphatic drainage can help move the fluid. While liing on your back, applying cold compresses for a few minutes. VERY GENTLY, place a hand under you armpits, and press in a pumping motion 10-15 times. move to your clavicle area and make little circles 10-15 times. Move to the nipple, and stroke, slightly more firm than you would a pet, toward the armpit/ clavicle, can also help reduce swelling and pain.

4. Blocked Ducts and Mastitis

Sometimes, milk ducts can become inflamed leading to localised pain and swelling. If left untreated, this can develop into mastitis, a painful infection of the breast tissue that could require medical treatment. Signs of mastitis include redness, swelling, warmth, and flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills. To prevent blocked ducts, ensure your baby is feeding well and regularly with a deep latch. If you suspect mastitis, REST, cool your breast down with a cold compress, feed as normal seek medical attention if it doesn't settle within 24 hours.

5. Thrush

Thrush is a yeast infection that can develop in your baby's mouth and be passed to your nipples, causing sharp, burning pain. You might notice white patches in your baby's mouth or a shiny or flaky rash on your nipples. Both you and your baby will need treatment to fully clear the infection. Maintaining good breast hygiene and sterilising any breast pump parts, pacifiers, and bottles can help prevent thrush.

Thrush is very rare, and often over diagnosed and other issues are missed such as vasospasm or poor latch.

6. Tongue Tie

A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the tissue under the baby’s tongue is too short or tight, restricting movement and making it difficult for the baby to latch properly. This can cause significant pain during breastfeeding. If you suspect your baby has a tongue tie, consult with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant.

A change in positioning can help with pain and support baby to get a deeper and more efficient latch, where needed a simple procedure can correct the issue and greatly improve breastfeeding comfort, however not all restictions need to be cut.

Finding Relief and Support from pain when breastfeeding

Breastfeeding should not be a painful experience. If you’re struggling with pain, don’t hesitate to seek help. A lactation consultant, like myself

breastfeeding support

can provide valuable support, helping you to address latch issues, positioning, and any other concerns. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Many women experience breastfeeding pain, but with the right support and information, it’s possible to overcome these challenges and enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling breastfeeding experience.

You’re doing an amazing job, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Keep going, and know that with time and support, breastfeeding can become the beautiful and bonding experience it’s meant to be. 🌸