Breastfeeding Problems and SolutionsSo Mothers Don't Have to Struggle Alone

Breastfeeding is a truly wonderful thing, but it can also come with worries and difficulties. Let's discuss these problems and their solutions so that mothers don't have to face them alone.


《 Breast lumps 》 Breast lumps are a common problem. They occur when part of a milk duct becomes blocked. They are more likely to develop when you are fatigued or stressed, as these factors disrupt the balance of your immune system and make it easier for inflammation to occur within the tissues of the mammary glands.
Additionally, factors such as the baby not feeding properly, overproduction of milk, or the baby biting or pulling on the nipple can also play a part.

〈 Solution 〉
When your baby isn't drinking much breast milk, try to express as much milk as possible to empty your breasts.
Having your baby drink all your milk is the best solution.
If you don't have a fever and only experience breast pain, it usually resolves within a few days if your baby is drinking well. Think of breastfeeding positions that help your baby to drink more. If you always breastfeed in the same position, your baby might only be feeding from the same milk ducts. Try positions like the football hold, the cradle hold, or the vertical hold when breastfeeding.


《 Mastitis 》 Mastitis causes symptoms such as breast lumps that are painful to the touch, redness and swelling, the breast feeling hot, high fevers of 38°C or above accompanied by chills, and blood or pus mixed in the breast milk.
If these symptoms are left untreated, you may be forced to temporarily stop breastfeeding to receive treatment, and hospitalization may be required in some cases. Therefore, early intervention is crucial.

〈 Solution 〉
First, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of the inflammation.

• ● If the cause is a blocked milk duct, you will need to clear the duct. Massage from the lump toward the nipple to help milk flow, then have your baby nurse. If milk remains, express it to empty the breast completely. If you can't do this yourself, it's best to have it done at a maternity clinic.
• ● Make sure you get enough rest, as fatigue buildup or being cold can increase susceptibility to mastitis.
• ● Avoid wearing tight bras and clothing.

《 Cracked nipples 》 Cracked nipples can occur when the baby latches incorrectly or pulls on the nipple when releasing it.
They can also happen when the baby bites down, especially when they are teething.
If you continue breastfeeding with a cracked nipple, it may worsen, and you may eventually be unable to breastfeed due to the pain. Treat them promptly.

〈 Solution 〉
Adjust how you hold your baby to prevent the wound from coming into contact with their lower jaw. Ensure the entire areola is in their mouth to avoid nipple pulling. After feeding, apply a oil that is safe for babies, such as horse oil or suet, to moisturize the nipple. Covering the nipple with a small piece of plastic wrap after applying oil helps to improve the moisturization effect. If you are experiencing pain, visit a hospital for a prescription ointment.


《 White spots 》 White spots are white, pimple-like spots that form on the nipple. If a white spot blocks the opening of a milk duct, it can block the flow of milk and cause inflammation. Symptoms such as whether there is pain or milk secretion from the nipple vary from person to person.
White spots may be caused by long intervals between feedings, improper breastfeeding positions, the baby not latching fully onto the nipple, or compression due to tight bras.
White spots occur when the milk produced in the breast is not being properly drained.
They are prone to recurring and can also make it easy for mastitis to occur, so it's necessary to review how you breastfeed.

〈 Solution 〉
Breastfeeding from a nipple with a white spot may be painful, but it does not affect the baby, so you can continue breastfeeding as usual.
However, if the pain is severe and makes breastfeeding stressful, it's okay to stop breastfeeding and switch to pumping. You can then feed the pumped milk to your baby using a bottle. However, you shouldn't expect a white spot to heal even if you take a break from breastfeeding.
Correcting your breastfeeding positions and how your baby latches on when feeding is the fastest way to recovery.

Here are some other things you can do besides improving your breastfeeding positions:

• ● Avoid wearing tight bras
• ● Take relaxing baths
• ● Massage your nipples
• ● Get adequate sleep and relaxation time
• ● Eat a balanced diet

To avoid breastfeeding problems, the most important thing is to get plenty of rest and avoid letting fatigue build up. It's also important to get into the habit of taking baths to keep your body warm.
Try stretching when you're taking a break from caring for your baby. Your shoulders and back get stiff from breastfeeding and carrying your baby. Try doing shoulder circles and stretches. These exercises loosen your muscles, improve your circulation, and lift your spirits.

In the long parenting journey that lies ahead of you, the time you spend breastfeeding will pass in the blink of an eye. Take care to avoid breastfeeding problems as much as possible so you can enjoy breastfeeding.