Common Newborn Breastfeeding Problems

As if being a new mom isn’t hard enough, throwing breastfeeding into the mix can make it even harder and breastfeeding with a newborn can be even more difficult. As easy as some may make it look, it can often times lead to several problems. Here’s a list of common newborn breastfeeding problems and solutions on how to fix them.

Breastfeeding Problem #1: The Latch

Most mommas know that with breastfeeding, it often time leads to sore nipples. If you’re new to the whole breastfeeding thing, you might not realize just how much they will hurt. It’s okay if they do but if the pain continues, especially throughout your entire breastfeeding session, it’s probably because your baby isn’t latching right. It’s so hard to know exactly how your baby should latch, especially if this is your first time breastfeeding.

SOLUTION: The most common way to accomplish a perfect latch is by starting your nipple at baby’s top lip (just under their nose). This encourages a wide mouth. Once baby’s mouth is opened, make sure their bottom lip is positioned so that it is below your nipple. There should be very little pain once baby is latched correctly. If pain continues, schedule an appointment to see a lactation specialist. They will help determine what the issue is.

Problem #2: Engorgement

Almost everyone knows that engorgement can be a part of breastfeeding. It’s actually a very common breastfeeding problem. Just like with a wrong latch, breast engorgement can be very painful too. In some instances, it can even cause clogged ducts and/or mastitis. Both are not something you want to experience! Engorgement can be caused by a number of things like your milk supply is still regulating or there is too much time between feedings.

SOLUTION: If you have the option, you can always let baby nurse to empty your breast and ease the engorgement. If that isn’t an option, you can pump and save that milk for baby at a later time. If your breasts are so engorged that baby is having a hard time latching, try expressing some milk before letting baby nurse.

Problem #3: The dreaded cracked nipples

Cracked nipples can be caused by a number of things. Not pumping correctly, not having a good latch and not adding nipple cream can all by reasons as to why you might develop cracked nipples.

SOLUTION: You will want to try to correct any issues that might be causing the cracked nipples. Check baby’s latch. Ensure you are placing the pumps correctly on your breasts. If everything checks out, using nipple cream should help the issue. Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter is AMAZING! You can purchase it on Amazon here.

When breast feeding just remember, no one said it would be easy. It can be trying, hard and tiring but you got this momma! Hopefully these top common newborn breastfeeding problems help and all else fails, see a lactation consultant.