However, if your baby is still not latching on well or is not feeding well for another reason, then you may be not so confident. You may even be considering switching to formula. This is the time to get help from a lactation consultant instead and remember that breastfeeding is not always easy, even for moms who have successfully breastfed their other kids.
Breastfeeding Issues
- Breastmilk Supply problems - The best way to understand breastmilk supply problems is that breastmilk production is usually based on supply and demand. Increasing the demand, by nursing frequently with a proper latch or pumping, will typically increase your supply.
- Engorgement - Continuing to breastfeed frequently, applying cool packs to your breasts after nursing, and taking a pain reliever (Tylenol, Motrin, etc.), can be helpful treatments for engorgement.
- Sore nipples - Getting your baby properly latched while nursing can often prevent sore nipples. An ointment with lanolin is often a helpful treatment for nipple soreness.
Breastfeeding Tips
- If you are pumping to try and increase your breastmilk supply, you will likely need a hospital-grade breast pump, which you can often rent from a lactation consultant. A regular electric breast pump may not be strong enough to stimulate your breasts to increase their production of breastmilk.
- Ice packs are usually thought to be better than heating pads when you have engorgement.
- An improper latch can often lead to sore nipples and interfere with your breastmilk supply.
- See a lactation consultant if you continue to have breastfeeding problems this week.
