4. Disadvantages of Breastfeeding
Let’s be honest—there are disadvantages
to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding ties you completely to baby. Because
you must be available when baby is hungry, other family members may
feel left out.
Because breast milk empties
rapidly from baby’s stomach, most newborns need to feed every couple of
hours. You may spend more time feeding baby than you anticipated. Pay
careful attention to your diet. Most substances you eat or drink (or
take orally, such as medicine) can pass to baby in your breast milk and
might cause problems.
5. Problems You May Have during Breastfeeding
Problems during breastfeeding are not
uncommon. On the opposite page is a discussion of the three most common
medical situations you may encounter.
Engorgement
A common breastfeeding problem for some women is breast engorgement. Breasts become swollen, tender and filled with breast milk. What can you do to relieve this problem?
The best cure is to drain the breasts, if
possible, as you do when breastfeeding. Some women take a hot shower
and empty their breasts in the warm water. Ice packs may also help.
Feed your baby from both breasts each time you feed. Don’t feed on only one side.
When you’re away from your baby, try to
express some breast milk to keep your milk flowing and breast ducts
open. You’ll also feel more comfortable.
Over-the-counter medicines, such as
acetaminophen, are often useful in relieving the pain of engorgement.
Acetaminophen is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics as
safe to use while breastfeeding.
You might need to use stronger
medications, such as acetaminophen with codeine, if pain is more
severe. Call your healthcare provider; he or she will decide on
treatment.
Breast Infections
It is possible to get an infection in
your breast while breastfeeding. An infection may cause pain in the
breast, and the breast may turn red and become swollen. You may have
streaks of red discoloration on the breast; you may also feel as though
you have the flu.
If you think you have an
infection, call your healthcare provider. He or she can devise a
treatment plan and/or prescribe medication for you, if necessary.
Sore Nipples
Most nursing mothers have sore nipples
at some point, particularly when they begin breastfeeding. You can take
steps to lessen or to relieve the soreness. Try the following.
• Keep your breasts dry and clean.
• Do not air dry—it encourages scab formation and can take quite a while for a sore breast to heal.
• Moist healing is best, such as applying lanolin.
• Cover the entire nipple area with lanolin every time baby finishes nursing.
• Express a little breast milk
after breastfeeding, and rub it over your nipples. Research shows that
breast milk contains antibiotic qualities that can help prevent and/or
heal sore, cracked nipples.
Good news! Before too long—a few days to
a few weeks—your breasts will become accustomed to breastfeeding, and
problems will lessen.
