Breast Feeding ProblemsIt's actually quite rare for a first time mum to take to breast feeding without some disruptions. In fact, breast feeding does require a certain amount of devotion, that is why so many mums will start off with breast feeding, experience breast feeding problems and then move onto bottled milk. Which is a shame. All of the breast feeding problems can be overcome, yet part of the problem is due to the lack of information about how to resolve the problems. Without a solution, is it any wonder so many of us prefer an easy life with bottled milk? At least our partners can share the dreaded twilight shift. If you're a first time mum, we thought it would be useful to highlight some of the more common breast feeding problems. Common breast feeding problems Sore nipples - This is obviously very painful and will hurt before, during and after breast feeding. Among the more common breast feeding problems, this is the one that drives women to bottles more than any other reason. The interesting thing is that the soreness will quickly go a few days after you begin breast feeding. As long as your baby is taking the nipple correctly then it should be fine, you can massage your breast area and milk your nipple before feeding time to help further. Colic - Whilst the reasons for colic are still somewhat of a mystery, it is thought that it can be a reaction to certain foods, especially if sickness and dirty nappies occur quickly after being at the breast. If your infant cries in an inconsolable nature shortly after being breast fed, you might wish to consider using an alternative source of milk for a few days, at the very least it will help you to rule out the possibility that breast feeding is the cause. Engorgement - Otherwise known as very tender, sore and swollen breasts. For many women, this is often the last straw before turning to bottled milk. Fear not, it is a symptom that can be treated, usually with a hot shower or a gentle massage. Medical doctors also recommend using regular breast pump sessions to remove excess milk. Lack of milk - The quickest way to see whether you are providing your baby with enough milk is to count the number of dirty nappies they have per day. For the very young, you should expect seven or more, if that is the case and they are gaining weight you have no real problem with lack of milk. If you're baby is not putting on weight, it could be possible that you're not producing enough milk. There could be a number of reasons for this, the most common one is that the baby is not taking to the breast as often as they should. Ask you mid wife to observe you breast feeding during one of their regular visits in the first few weeks after birth. The general feeling among the medical fraternity these days is that breast feeding is good, you have probably noticed the bias towards breast feeding during your consultations or ante natal classes. This is because there are some very real benefits to both mother and baby. So our advice is do not give up, if you're experiencing breast feeding problems, phone up the cavalry and don't be afraid to ask your medical team for advice. Read more of our articles on breast feeding Breast Feeding in Public |