Breast pain during lactation

Breastfeeding mothers sometimes pay special attention to the problem of breast pain. In fact, this symptom can be very painful. There are reasons for breast pain, such as nipple rupture, nipple damage, and milk congestion, which can all cause breast pain. In addition, the baby cannot empty the milk well during feeding, which can also cause these symptoms. Therefore, you should choose the appropriate treatment method based on the actual situation.

1. What causes breast pain during lactation?

1. Breast pain and nipple cracking during lactation

Because the nipple skin of new mothers is relatively delicate, when the baby sucks the nipple hard, it may cause nipple erosion, cracks and other symptoms of nipple cracks. New mothers with insufficient milk secretion are more likely to experience this symptom. When the baby is breastfeeding, the baby should hold the entire nipple and most of the areola in his mouth. However, some babies only hold the nipple in their mouth when breastfeeding. Incorrect posture can easily cause cracking of the nipple skin. Some new mothers worry that unhygienic nipples will affect the baby's health, so they wash their nipples several times a day, and even use soap to wash their nipples, which can easily cause cracks in the nipple skin. When nipples become cracked and infected, new mothers may experience breast tenderness.

2. Breast pain during lactation due to milk stasis

If the baby cannot empty the milk in the nipple well when feeding, it may cause milk accumulation, which can also cause breast pain in new mothers.

3. Breast pain during lactation and mastitis

New mothers are prone to mastitis. Not only will they feel tingling in their breasts, but they will also have symptoms of high fever.

4. Breast pain during lactation and nipple illusion

Some new mothers feel breast pain, which may be a nipple illusion. For example, some new mothers have less milk secretion, or they use bottles to feed their babies at the beginning, which makes the babies unwilling to drink breast milk. If the baby is forced to suck the mother's nipple at this time, the nipple may feel stinging.

2. What to do if your breasts hurt during lactation

1. Breast pain during lactation is a relatively common disease. If the symptoms are severe, you should seek medical attention in time to avoid worsening of the condition.

2. New mothers can use a hot and wet towel to apply heat to the breasts and areola for three to five minutes before breastfeeding. When breastfeeding, let the baby hold the entire nipple and most of the areola in the mouth. This can effectively avoid breast pain symptoms.

3. New mothers should wear loose underwear and cotton nursing bras, which will help relieve nipple pain.

4. New mothers should pay attention to breast hygiene and empty their breasts every time the baby feeds to avoid milk accumulation. After feeding, you can squeeze out a little milk and apply it on the nipples. This can prevent nipple cracking and breast pain.