10 tips every breastfeeding mum needs to know
Mummas, we got you. From mastitis and milk supply to nipple pain, here’s how to care for your breasts while breastfeeding.
From the unexpected aches of mastitis and the frustration of milk supply issues to the pain of nipple irritation, breastfeeding can come with a host of challenges beyond those sharp little teeth.
Fortunately there are ways to look after your breasts while they’re looking after your little one.
Lactation consultant Ashleigh Bertrand and doula Vanessa Salerno share their expert advice for managing common breastfeeding challenges.
How to avoid mastitis while breastfeeding
Express regularly
Mastitis, an inflammation of the breast tissue, is usually caused by a blocked milk duct.
Flu-like symptoms and a sore breast can arise, with more serious cases needing antibiotics.
Keeping the breast soft and comfortable with regular milk removal (by direct feeding or expressing) is key to avoiding mastitis, says lactation consultant Ashleigh Bertrand.
Demand feed
Feeding on demand can also help, as well as wearing a comfortable bra.
“No tight bras or anything that puts pressure on breast tissue,” says Bertrand. “If you’re expressing, ensure that the flanges are appropriately sized and the cups don’t dig into breast tissue.”
Massage
Massage can help clear a clogged milk duct, but you don’t want to be too heavy-handed.
“Use only very gentle massage on the breast, about the same pressure you would use applying face cream,” advises Bertrand.
Use cool compresses
Cool packs, anti-inflammatories and that elusive yet crucial activity – rest – can also help heal mastitis.
How to care for your nipples during breastfeeding
Get the latch right
As part of her role as a doula in the postpartum period, Vanessa Salerno helps her clients with latching and breastfeeding.
“Understanding how baby latches and your positioning when feeding can help prevent nipple damage,” says Salerno.
Use nipple shields
Nipple shields can play an important role in protecting the breast, she says.
“If you get a blister or a graze, rather than stop breastfeeding, you can use a nipple shield to create a barrier so you can heal but still breastfeed,” says Salerno.
Nursing pads
Nursing cups and hydration discs can also be helpful in keeping the nipples hydrated. With the hydration comes a need to dry as well.
“It’s important to air out your breasts,” says Salerno. “If you can sit without your bra every now and then, that helps.”
Address irritation
Being on antibiotics can be the cause of nipple thrush, while nipple dermatitis is often the cause of itchiness and feeding discomfort.
“Getting a swab to clarify the cause is always advised,” says Bertrand.
For nipple thrush, antifungals are usually prescribed.
It’s a good idea to change your bra, nursing pads and towels regularly and wash them in hot water, air drying them in the sun if possible.
“Taking a probiotic can help as well,” says Bertrand.
Using heat, ice and massage to help during breastfeeding
Ice packs
A useful, but perhaps unexpected, breastfeeding support item is the humble ice/heat pack.
“Ice and heat both have a function in taking care of your breasts,” says Salerno.
Bertrand recommends icing the breast to reduce any swelling, engorgement or discomfort.
Warm compresses
A heat pack or warm compress can be used if experiencing clogged ducts or vasospasms (sudden cramping of blood vessels in the nipple).
By warming up the breasts, this can also help increase the amount of breastmilk.
Breast massages
Massage plays a role in helping look after your breasts and also helps boost your milk supply.
Use gentle movements when massaging to dislodge any blockages in the breast, to express milk or reduce engorgement.
Knowing your breasts
Knowing your breasts is an important first step in looking after them.
“Get familiar with your breasts pre-pregnancy as well as during pregnancy so you can notice the changes,” says Bertrand.
“Don’t push through pain,” she says.
“If you’re having any difficulties, consult with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant as soon as possible; don’t wait until it’s unbearable.
“And always see a health care professional if you’re worried about any changes.”
World Breastfeeding Week 2024 starts on August 1.
More on pregnancy, birth and postnatal care:
- Things to try if breastfeeding is a struggle
- What to know about hiring a birth doula
- Moves for mums: How to safely exercise after giving birth
- How to survive your first year of parenthood
Written by Samantha Allemann.
