The benefits of breastfeeding are already known throughout the world. It is the healthiest option for both mother and baby, as long as it is possible. On many occasions, future mothers are not well informed of the inconveniences that may occur during the process. On many occasions it can cause pain and many women throw in the towel, for not having adequate information.
Breastfeeding seems easy and simple, but it is not always the case. Let's look at some tips for painless breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding
In the article 6 Tips to start breastfeeding successfully, In addition to telling you the benefits of breastfeeding for the baby, we gave you some tips to start breastfeeding on the right foot.
No matter how much information we have in advance, it often happens that when the time comes let's have doubts and it seems more complicated to us. That we believe that we are not doing well, or that it is not for us.
Does breastfeeding hurt?
Many mothers experience sore nipples when breastfeeding, during sucking, or from excessive breast sensitivity. Breastfeeding may hurt sometimes but it shouldn't hurt. It means that something is wrong. The reasons can be cracked nipples, poor baby latch, or infection. Let's see what are the tips so that breastfeeding is not an ordeal, and becomes something pleasant.
Get a good grip.
Is one of the main causes causing pain, in addition to long-term problems such as lower milk production. If the baby does not latch on well, it can lead to pain due to poor suction.
The baby must have inside the mouth not only the nipple, but also a large part of the areola. The wedding should be open, the lips turned out, the tongue under the nipple and with the chin touching the chest.
Change posture
Una poor posture can cause pain from the pressure on the breasts. It also helps the baby to latch on better. You can spend many hours a day breastfeeding your baby, so depending on the moment and the circumstance you should choose the position that best suits you. Let's see what the recommended postures are:
- Cradle position. The most common. In it the baby rests on the arm on the same side of the chest. His head is at the level of the mother's elbow, who supports him with the rest of her arm.
- Cross cradle position. It is the same as the previous one, only in this case the arm that holds the baby is on the opposite side to the breast that is being fed.
- Rugby position. The baby is positioned so that its body passes under the mother's arm like a rugby ball. This posture helps prevent mastitis and blockages.
- Sitting position. The baby straddles one of its mother's legs. It is not very common, but it can be common for babies with difficulty latching onto the breast.
- Stretched posture. Both lying on their side, it is ideal for mothers after giving birth by cesarean section. This way the mother can rest while breastfeeding.
Clean the nipples well
To prevent infections they should clean your nipples well both before and after each feeding. You can use your own milk to clean them, as it has healing properties.
The breast pump can be your rest
A sore nipple can be relieved by expressing milk with a breast pump. This way your baby will continue with breast milk and your breast will rest.
Use liners and protectors
Cracked nipples can be a pain when rubbing against clothing. Some nipple shields will protect you. Wear comfortable clothes, avoid bras that are too tight.
Shields are useful for badly cracked or injured nipples. Check with your midwife to find out how they are used.
Hot Cold
Una hot shower before Breastfeeding can relieve pain, or a hot towel as long as there is no infection. The cold soothes after to breastfeed.
Because remember ... breastfeeding doesn't have to be a chore. You have to be patient and try until you find a way that is satisfactory for both of you.