A New Mother's Guide to Breastfeeding/What are some suggestions for common breastfeeding problems?

= Suggestions for Common Problems =

How do I know by baby is eating enough?

 * Watch for good weight gain, urine output and sleeping after feeding
 * If you have questions, ask your doctor

Painful breastfeeding
This is often more of a problem early on, and tends to get better
 * Use lotion on nipples and breasts to avoid cracking of skin
 * Use pump several times a day instead of baby early on if painful

Breastfeeding Remedies for Sore Nipples (Click Here) -->

Leaking

 * This is a common problem, and usually cannot be helped
 * Use bra pads regularly to cut down on the wetness

Engorgement
This is when the breasts are full of milk and swollen
 * It occurs often the first week or so into breastfeeding
 * Use a breast pump or hands to express milk between feedings
 * Talk with your doctor about pain medicines to use
 * Sometimes a good bra that gives support helps

Mastitis
This is usually an infection of the breast tissue
 * It is where part of the breast is usually red, painful and warm
 * You can still feed baby, as the milk itself is not infected
 * Often, antibiotics are needed, so talk to your doctor quickly

Weaning
This is where you start to get the baby to stop breastfeeding
 * It is best to wait until at least 6 months, and even better, 12 months old
 * Start by exchanging one breastfeeding every 2 or 3 days with a cup, bottle or baby food instead
 * Over two or three weeks, get to the point that there is only 1 or 2 breast feedings per day, with all the other feedings from a cup or bottle
 * Leave the bedtime feeding for last, and finally stop that one too
 * Use a tight fitting bra to help with breast pain and swelling

References

Davidson, M., London, M., & Ladewig, P. (2008). Newborn Nutrition. In Maura Conner (Ed.), Olds' maternal-newborn nursing & women's health across the lifespan (8th ed., Rev., pp. 890-927). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc.