Mustela. The skin care specialist for babies and mothers-to-be.
Breastfeeding
Introduction
The lactation process
The benefits of breastfeeding
Breastfeeding in practice
What position should I use?
The signs of good feeding
Breastfeeding problems
Breastfeeding problems
• Cracked nipples
The skin on the nipples, which is sucked during feeds, can become sensitive. It can become irritated, dry and sometimes cracked. Cracked nipples are not due to the frequency or length of feeds, but to poor latching by the baby on the nipple. You should therefore check your baby’s latch.
You can also use the Mustela 9 Months Nursing Comfort Balm which soothes feelings of irritation and helps to restructure the skin. This specific skin care protects, moisturises and cleanses the skin.
• Engorgement
Your breasts may feel painful and tender due to a build-up of milk that has not been drained. It is therefore important to carry on breastfeeding and increase the number of feeds. You can relieve the soreness by applying something hot or cold to the breast. The best prevention is to feed as often as possible and for as long as the baby wants, and above all to rest.
• Mastitis
Your breast might become inflamed (pain, redness, localised heat), with or without an infection, which may be accompanied by a fever and flu-like symptoms. Mastitis is the result of significant engorgement in one or both breasts, usually the consequence of an inappropriate feeding technique (poor latch, restricting the frequency and length of feeds, changing too quickly from one breast to the other, using a nipple shield, stress while feeding etc.).
If you suspect mastitis you should see your doctor.
For more information on this topic, ask a health professional or lactation consultant for advice.