Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial way to nourish a newborn, as it offers numerous health advantages for both the baby and the mother. However, despite its benefits, many new moms face challenges that can make breastfeeding a difficult and sometimes painful experience. Many new mothers find themselves unprepared for the reality of breastfeeding complications. Sore nipples, engorgement, and blocked ducts are just a few of the hurdles that can arise, potentially discouraging continued breastfeeding.

New mothers may have a fulfilling breastfeeding experience by identifying these obstacles early on and learning how to resolve them. Hence, we got in touch with Dr Anjali Kumar, Director - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital Gurugram who shares common challenges with solutions for new moms.

Dr Anjali Kumar shares that sore nipples are a typical nursing complaint among new mothers. An incorrect latch may be the cause of this discomfort, leading the baby to suck on the nipple instead of the areola. It is important to make sure the infant is latching correctly to relieve this pain.

How To Manage: Mothers should place their infant such that, rather than merely covering the nipple, their mouth covers a significant area of the areola. Using lanolin ointments or nipple creams might help relieve pain if it continues. Further, after feeding, letting nipples air dry can help avoid irritation.

Dr Anjali Kumar explains when the breasts overflow with milk, it is known as breast engorgement and can cause discomfort, hardness, and swelling. This typically occurs when the baby is not being fed regularly enough, or when the milk first appears. Mothers should nurse frequently and make sure the child routinely drains the breasts to manage engorgement.

How To Manage: Cold compresses after feeding might lessen oedema, while warm compresses applied before feeding can aid in promoting milk flow. Another way to release pressure is to express milk with your hands and give yourself a gentle massage.

Dr Anjali Kumar shares that for new mothers, worries about a poor milk supply can be quite stressful. It's crucial to keep in mind that increasing milk production requires frequent nursing. It can be helpful to make sure the infant is securely latching on and to nurse every feeding session.

How To Manage: Factors that are critical for milk production include getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and drinking enough water. Lactation consultants may occasionally suggest herbal supplements or prescription drugs to increase the amount of milk produced.

Dr Anjali Kumar explains painful lumps in the breast might result from milk getting stuck in blocked milk ducts. This can become mastitis, an infection that results in redness, swelling, and flu-like symptoms if treatment is not received.

How To Manage: Moms who want to maintain their milk flowing should remain nursing or pumping to avoid and cure blocked ducts. The obstruction can be removed by using warm compresses, rubbing the afflicted area, and shifting nursing positions. Consult a doctor if you suspect you have mastitis; you may need to take antibiotics.

Dr Anjali Kumar shares a breastfeeding strike is when a baby refuses to be breastfed for whatever reason. For new mothers, this can be concerning, but it's usually just temporary and can be brought on by several things, including illness, teething, or schedule adjustments. Mothers who are going through a breastfeeding strike should have patience and keep providing their breasts regularly.

How To Manage: Making sure the dining area is peaceful and quiet might also be beneficial. Seeking advice from a breastfeeding specialist might offer more direction and assistance if the strike continues.

Dr Anjali Kumar explains thrush is a yeast infection that can cause pain and discomfort during nursing. It can also affect the mother's nipples and the baby's mouth. White patches in the baby's mouth and red, glossy, or flaky nipples are symptoms of thrush.

How To Manage: To stop re-infection, treatment for the mother and child must be administered concurrently. Antifungal drugs that are administered by a medical professional are usually successful in curing thrush. Recurrence can be avoided by practising good hygiene, such as hand washing and sterilizing nursing supplies.