9 Common Breastfeeding Problems (& the Best Solutions)

There are various benefits to breastfeeding, including a reduced risk of SIDs, protection against some allergies, and a smaller risk of contracting certain viruses, infections, and diseases.

While the process may come naturally to some new mothers, it can be difficult for others.

If you are set to breastfeed or are currently doing so and want to avoid various obstacles, keep reading to learn more about the following nine common breastfeeding problems and the best solutions.

1. Limited Breast Milk

Many new mothers worry their baby isn’t receiving enough breast milk at first. It is important not to worry, as building your confidence can take time.

If you’re struggling with limited breast milk, switch between breasts during a feed, which can stimulate your milk supply and ensure your baby receives plenty of milk. Another top tip is to hold your newborn close to your bare skin.

2. Sore Nipples

Another common breastfeeding problem is sore or cracked nipples. It can often happen due to poor positioning or if your baby isn’t well attached to your breast.

Rather than accepting it is a natural aspect of breastfeeding, take the steps to ease your discomfort.

For example, you can alleviate sore nipples by:

• Dabbing expressed breast milk
• Applying a warm compress
• Using a salt-water rinse
• Regularly changing your nipple pads
• Applying a prescription or over-the-counter ointment

Don’t suffer in silence when struggling with sore nipples from breastfeeding and talk to your midwife, health visitor, or doctor for advice and treatment.

3. Tongue Tie

A reported 1 in 10 newborns will be born with a tongue tie. If you’re unfamiliar with the issue, it is when the strip of skin that attaches the floor of the mouth to the tongue is too short.

While it might not be a problem for some babies, it can prevent the tongue from freely moving for others, which could make breastfeeding a tad difficult. 

Tongue tie will often disappear when left untreated, but some treatment options are available, such as tongue tie division, which is the cutting of the tight piece of skin.

4. Latching Issues

It might take time for your baby to latch onto your breast, and it doesn’t mean your little one doesn’t like you or that you’re doing anything wrong. It can sometimes just be a difficult process.

For example, some women find it helpful to use a breast pump for a minute or two before feeding their baby. The pump’s suction can elongate the nipples and help a bundle of joy to latch on.

5. Breast Engorgement

Breast engorgement can strike when your breasts become too full of milk, making them feel tight, hard, and painful.

It is common for the issue to strike during the first few days of your child’s life, as your milk supply will be coming in and your baby will be learning how to take the breast.

While it is often an early breastfeeding problem, engorgement can occur when a baby moves onto solids and they are not feeding frequently.

6. A Blocked Milk Duct

Breast engorgement can also lead to a blocked milk duct, which will feel similar to a small lump in the breast that is tender to the touch.

If this happens, it could help if your baby latches onto the breast with the blocked milk duct. Try to position your baby’s chin over the blockage to support drainage.

It may help to apply a warm or cold compress to your breast to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

7. Mastitis

It is vital to unclog a blocked milk duct as soon as possible, as it could lead to the development of mastitis, which is inflammation of the breast.

It can be rather painful and may make your breast feel hot. What’s more, you might experience flu-like symptoms.

If you suspect you have mastitis, continue to breastfeed, as it could alleviate the pain.

If the problem persists for more than 12 to 24 hours, contact your GP, who might prescribe antibiotics.

If left untreated, mastitis could cause a breast abscess, which may require you to undergo an operation to drain the infection.

8. Excessive Milk Production

While some women might struggle with a limited milk supply, others might produce too much milk, which can be difficult for a baby to consume.

If your little one is struggling to cope with excessive milk production, consult your health visitor or midwife to identify the cause.

9. Thrush

Cracked or damaged nipples can lead to the development of thrush of the nipple or breast.

If you believe you or your newborn has a thrush infection, you should immediately contact your GP or health visitor.

If you are struggling with breastfeeding problems, don’t suffer in silence. Reach out to your health visitor or GP for advice and treatment.