0 - 3 Months

Tackling breastfeeding problems

#YourBody

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things, but it doesn’t always come easily. With a bit of practice, some perseverance and a few pointers, it can get easier. Try these steps to help tackle breastfeeding problems.

Get started by adding popular actions
below, or add your own items.

What other parents add

Add

Action

Used by

Try to make sure baby is latching correctly. Their mouth should cover more of the areola at the bottom of the nipple than the top.

141 141

Talk to a your midwife or health visitor if feeding is painful. Baby might not be latching properly.

136 136

Try brushing baby’s top lip against your nipple to open their mouth.

136 136

Use nipple cream or expressed breast milk between feeds to soothe any pain or dryness.

142 142

Try warm compresses if you have clogged ducts. See your GP, midwife or health visitor for more advice.

136 136

Try to express by hand before feeding if milk supply is high or breasts are engorged.

134 134

Try feeding more often if breasts become engorged.

133 133

Breast milk works on a supply and demand basis. Keep feeding as often as you can early on to boost supply.

140 140

If inverted nipples are an issue, speak to your midwife.

122 122

Try and breast pump before nursing if inverted nipples are proving hard to latch on to.

125 125

Try baby on the fuller breast for a more effective feed if they fall asleep during feeding.

137 137

Try tickling baby’s feet if they fall asleep too soon during feeding.

140 140

Wear extra pads if you drop a feed. Breasts take a while to get the memo.

134 134

Try and feed or breast pump more often, with an HCP’s guidance, if mastitis is an issue.

127 127

Talk to your GP if you feel you have mastitis.

126 126

Talk to your GP or lactation consultant if you’re suffering painful letdown.

127 127

Try different holds if a fast letdown is an issue or baby seems uncomfortable during feeds.

134 134

Remember, breastfeeding problems should ease over time.

136 136

Tackling breastfeeding problems

My actions

My completed actions

Are you sure you want to delete this action?

What other parents add

Welcome to Smart parenting

You are about to delete a saved checklist