Breast Feeding Problems Part 2….

Clogged, or blocked milk ducts are another breastfeeding pain that some nursing mums have to deal with. The breast is filled with milk ducts that carry the milk through the breast and out the nipple and when one of these milk ducts get clogged it can be a very painful experience. A clogged milk duct can be caused by a tight bra, the breast not being emptied when your baby nurses and even engorgement from missed nursing sessions. The breastfeeding mother may notice a small tender lump in her breast. It can also be red and possibly a little swollen.

A clogged milk duct should be taken care of as soon as you notice it or else you could be risking a serious breast infection called mastitis. There are many ways to rid your breast of the clog. You should nurse as often as you and your baby possibly can. While nursing you should change positions often so that all of the milk ducts in your breast have a chance to empty. Massaging the affected area during nursing will help the clog work it’s way out of the milk ducts. You have to massage pretty hard but it’s well worth it in the end. Applying warm, moist heat to the area will also help. You can do this by wetting a simple washcloth with hot water and laying it on the breast, soaking in a warm bath or take a hot shower.

Thrush is another common breastfeeding pain that many nursing mothers have to deal with. Thrush is caused by Candida, a yeast-like fungus that grows in dark, damp places and is found in the birth canal of most women. It can be passed to the baby at birth and then passed to your breasts during nursing. Thrush is not a serious infection but it can be very painful. Signs of having thrush are small red or white patches on the breast, red or purple nipples and sharp, shooting pain in the breast. A lot of times pain is the only sign of infection. Some breastfeeding moms that are infected with thrush will also have a vaginal yeast infection at the same time. The baby may also show signs of having a diaper rash when the two of you are suffering from thrush.

To rid yourself of thrush you will have to go through an extensive cleansing period. You will need to treat both mother and baby, even if only one is showing signs of thrush. If you don’t treat both mother and child then the thrush can continue to be transferred back and forth between mother and baby. Best thing to do is visit your Dr so that he/she can prescribe something for you and baby. If the thrush persists for more than two weeks be sure to let your doctor know. He/She can prescribe you a different medication that may work more effectively on your type of yeast.

With thrush you will want to boil any and all rubber nipples and pacifiers that your baby uses. Boil them all every day for 20 minutes. Boil all of your breast pump parts daily for 20 minutes. Also wash your bras in hot, soap water everyday, making sure to rinse well.

Tags: Blocked Milk Ducts, Breast Feeding, Breast Feeding Problems, Mastitis, Thrush

Posted in Newborns, Pregnancy