It’s time to bust the myth that has caused countless mothers unnecessary suffering. The idea that “painful breastfeeding is normal” is simply false.
“Suck it up.” “It’s a part of motherhood.” “Pain is normal.”
Sadly, these phrases are by many new mothers who are taking on breastfeeding. This misconception often leads mothers to give up or struggle in silence, believing that nothing can be done.
But the truth is, breastfeeding is not supposed to be excruciating. If it hurts, there’s a reason, and that reason can likely be solved. Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful process but painful challenges arise for many new mothers. The good news is, most breastfeeding pain is preventable and treatable. Understanding the root causes is the first step to finding relief.
The Problem with a Poor Latch
One of the most frequent causes of breast pain is a poor latch. This is when a baby doesn’t take enough of the breast tissue into their mouth. Instead of latching onto the areola, they may only latch onto the nipple. This can lead to sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples.
The solution? Focus on a deep, wide-mouthed latch. Look for your baby’s mouth to be open wide like a yawn. Their chin should touch your breast first. See our full blog post on mastering the art of the latch here. A lactation consultant can be a lifesaver here, guiding you to achieve the correct positioning and a comfortable latch.
How to Manage Engorgement
Another common culprit is engorgement. This happens when your breasts become overly full of milk. Engorgement can make your breasts feel hard, tight, and painful. This can also make it difficult for your baby to latch. Gentle hand expression or pumping with a high-quality breast pump before a feed can help. It softens the areola, making it easier for your baby to latch. Cold compresses or chilled cabbage leaves can also provide temporary relief between feeds.
Clogged Ducts
Blocked milk ducts are another source of pain. This occurs when milk flow is obstructed. You may feel a small, tender lump in your breast. To clear a clogged duct, apply warm compresses to the area before feeding. Massaging the lump gently while your baby feeds can also help. Remember to breastfeed or pump frequently to keep the milk flowing. Skipping feeds can make the issue worse.
When to Seek Professional Help
Thrush is a yeast infection that can affect both the mother and baby. It causes a sharp, burning pain in the nipples. You might also notice a white coating in your baby’s mouth. This requires medical attention for both of you. A doctor or lactation consultant can provide the correct diagnosis and a treatment plan to get you back on track.
Sometimes, a baby’s anatomy can contribute to pain. Conditions like a tongue tie or lip tie can make it hard for a baby to get a good latch. This can lead to inefficient milk transfer and pain for the mother. A professional diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare provider can fix this issue and make breastfeeding more comfortable for everyone.
Finding Your Solution
Breastfeeding should be a positive experience. If you are experiencing pain, know that you are not alone, and there are solutions available. From adjusting your latch to using the right tools, relief is within reach. A quality breast pump can be an essential tool in your kit, helping with engorgement and milk supply.
At Hygeia Health, we believe every mother deserves a comfortable breastfeeding journey. Our breast pumps are designed for maximum comfort and efficiency, helping you maintain a healthy milk supply and manage common issues like engorgement.
Take the first step toward a more comfortable breastfeeding experience. Apply today to let Hygeia assist in getting your breast pump covered 100% by your insurance. You deserve the best tools to support your health journey.