August is National Breastfeeding Month. And for those who are just beginning their breastfeeding journey or expecting to deliver soon, you may have heard about breastfeeding problems like poor latching, breast engorgement, and cracked nipples and are beginning to feel apprehensive about all of it. Breastfeeding pain, especially in those first few weeks, is common. But it can be treated and alleviated once you know why it's happening.
So, what is painful breastfeeding, and what can be done about it? Read on to learn the potential causes and the corresponding treatments, so you and your baby can reach your breastfeeding goals.
Why painful breastfeeding happens
Breastfeeding pain relief
So what is the best painful breastfeeding remedy? That will depend on the cause of your breastfeeding pain. Some people who breastfeed may find relief through natural cures, while others — especially those experiencing mastitis — may need to visit their doctor for antibiotics to clear the infection.
New mom Grace Redmond shared her struggle with mastitis and tips for managing the pain on the breastfeeding resources site Boobing It.
"It’s a very painful condition and can come on very suddenly and quickly. If you’re lucky and can 'catch it early' there are some home remedies which you can do to combat it," Redmond wrote. "Things like a hot bath or shower while massaging the breasts can alleviate the engorgement and swollenness. It’s also important to continue to feed your baby from the sore breast(s). Hand expression and manual or electric pumping in between feeds can often remedy things."
Other natural remedies to alleviate breastfeeding pain include applying warm compresses to the breasts and treating irritated nipples with freshly expressed breast milk. Cabbage leaf treatment, which involves applying chilled cabbage leaves to the breasts, has also been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with breast engorgement, according to research published in the National Library of Medicine.
Emollients, like 100% lanolin cream, applied to cracked nipples can alleviate pain and irritation. Over-the-counter pain relief also works, but be sure to get clearance from your physician. For serious concerns like mastitis, it's important to see your doctor as you may need a course of antibiotics to clear up the infection.
