BREASTFEEDING RELATED PROBLEMS

 

While it may feel overwhelming, most breastfeeding problems can easily be treated. There are many benefits of breastfeeding for both you and your baby, so before you give up – see Dr van Schalkwyk.

Breastfeeding-Related Problems

While breastfeeding is a natural process, there are many problems that can arise when trying to breastfeed your baby. As a bespoke breast surgeon, Dr van Schalkwyk sees a range of breast conditions and can assist in breastfeeding related problems.

The following are common breastfeeding problems that Dr van Schalkwyk can assist with:

1LATCHING PAIN
While it’s normal to have some pain in your nipples when you begin to breastfeed, lasting pain during feeding may be an indication of incorrect latching.
2CRACKING NIPPLES
Cracked nipples can be a result of many things, but is commonly caused by thrush, dry skin, pumping improperly, or most likely, latching problems.
3CLOGGED OR PLUGGED DUCTS
A hard lump, pain and redness may be an indication of a clogged or plugged duct. When milk isn’t draining completely, it is often due to a clogged duct. Left untreated it may cause a breast abscess to form.
4ENGORGEMENT OR HIGH MILK SUPPLY
Engorgement makes the breast hard and uncomfortable for baby, and may make latching difficult.
5LOW MILK SUPPLY
Breastfeeding is a supply-and-demand process but there are many factors that can affect low milk supply, if you are struggling Dr van Schalkwyk can assist in ways to boost milk production.
6LACTATIONAL MASTITIS
Mastitis is a bacterial infection in your breasts commonly caused by cracked skin, clogged milk ducts, or engorgement with flu-like symptoms and pain in your breasts.
7THRUSH
Thrush is a yeast infection that can affect baby’s mouth or your breast causing itchiness, soreness, and sometimes a rash on the breast.
8INVERTED OR FLAT NIPPLES
A nipple that retracts rather than protrudes may make latching and breastfeeding more challenging.
9PAINFUL OR OVERACTIVE LET DOWN
If you feel an aching or stabbing pain when letting down, be sure to contact Dr van Schalkwyk.
10BLOODY NIPPLE DISCHARGE
This may be caused by increased blood flow to the breasts, but bloody discharge from the nipple lasting longer than a week should be cause for concern.

If you notice any breastfeeding related issues or your paediatrician is concerned, be sure to see a lactation and breast specialist such as Dr van Schalkwyk.

 

GET IN TOUCH