Looking after your breasts and nipples will help your breastfeeding experience get off on the right foot. Here are some quick tips, to assist you avoid breast and nipple pain:
- Practise good attachment - a poorly attached baby, means breastfeeding will hurt, and can result in irreparable damage to your nipples. If you need assistance, consultalt a Lactation consultant (sooner rather than later) if the problem lies with your baby, consider gentle corrective techniques, such as chiropractic
- Invest in a good fitting bra. Breastfeeding boobs, need support. Update your bra as your breasts grow or shrink.
- Allow your nipples to air dry after each feed. You can express a little milk onto them to assist healing any forming blisters or cracks. (Good attachment ought to help you avoid these to begin with)
- Hydrolised Lanolin (ie. Lansinoh) is a good cream for soothing, and helping nipples become supple. (it also makes a great nappy barrier cream, and lipbalm…)
- Sunshine helps any minor cracks heal.
- Keep a good watch for blocked ducts. If you notice any tenderness, or lumps, massage GENTLY under a hot shower, and if you can’t move the lump along - speak with a lactation consultant (sooner rather than later)
- Don’t wear a tight bra to bed. If you need the support, invest in a crop top, or special sleeping bra. (Tight bras, constrict milk ducts, and can cause blockages)
Remember, if it doesn’t feel right - it probably isn’t. Seek support and help from a professional, and keep asking until you get an answer that helps you.
