Breastfeeding pain: Reasons and methods of preventionImage Credit Source: Getty Images
Breastfeeding pain issue: The bond between mother and baby feels the deepest breastfeeding. This process plays a very important role in the physical and mental development of the child. The nutrients present in milk make the baby’s immunity strong and protect it from diseases. Also, breastfeeding for the mother is full of many benefits, such as controlling weight after birth and reducing the risk of breast cancer. But a common problem is also associated with it, pain. Many women complain ranging from mild to serious pain while breastfeeding. Sometimes it is temporary, sometimes it increases that the mother finds it difficult to continue breastfeeding. In such a situation, mothers need to adopt the correct information and measures instead of panic. If the reasons are understood and resolved on time, then both mother and baby can live this experience easily.
The biggest cause of pain during breastfeeding is wrong latching. When the baby’s mouth does not appear properly from the breast, there is excessive pressure on the nipple. As a result, the nipples are revealed in the form of cracks, burning and wounds. Continuous breastfeeding can make this problem more serious. Another cause is mastitis, in which the breast infection occurs. Its symptoms are redness, swelling, high fever and high pain. Many times not getting out of milk completely also causes discomfort. In such a situation, the breasts look hard and full. Fungal infection also increases pain, causing piercing and burning sensation while feeding milk. Although mild pain is normal, it can be a sign of infection if blood or pus starts coming from the nipple, mainly fever or harsh lumps in the breast. As soon as such symptoms are seen, a doctor’s advice should be taken immediately.
Measures to make breastfeeding comfortable
Dr. Pankhuri Gautam, Dr. Pankhuri Gautam, Senior Consultant of Cocoon Hospital, Jaipur It is said that to reduce the pain, it is necessary to breastfeed the baby in the right position first. The baby’s mouth should be covered not only on the nipple, but the entire ariola. This does not put pressure on the nipple and milk comes out easily. The baby’s stomach is also comfortable with the mother’s stomach. Milk is easy to make milk flow easier before breastfeeding, while the cold cuisine gives relief in swelling and pain later.
It is beneficial to dry them lightly after feeding the nipple every time after feeding them and using coconut oil or a doctor suggested. This causes cracks or wounds heal quickly and pain decreases. If milk is being made more, then extra milk should be extracted with the help of breast pump, this reduces the problem of angement. The mother should consume sufficient rest, nutritious diet and fluids. Fatigue and nutritional deficiency can further increase pain. These simple measures can make breastfeeding experience easily.
Mental aspect is also important
Apart from physical causes, mental condition also affects pain during breastfeeding. New mothers often feel more discomfort due to lack of sleep, fatigue and lack of experience. Sometimes stress and anxiety also increase pain. At this time, family cooperation, emotional support and patience are very important. The correct technique and methods of care can be learned when consulted from breastfeeding specialist, which also increases the mother’s confidence.
It is important to understand that mild pain is normal, but it can be dangerous to ignore persistent pain or serious symptoms. Taking steps in time not only reduces the suffering of the mother, but also gives adequate nutrition to the baby. Therefore, it is necessary to pay equal attention to both physical and mental aspects to make every experience of breastfeeding comfortable.