Breastfeeding is often seen as a beautiful bonding experience, but it can come with discomfort, especially in the early days. As a mom of four, I've learned that while some initial soreness is normal, ongoing pain is not. My experience has taught me that breastfeeding should become more comfortable over time, and persistent pain may signal an issue that needs addressing.
Initial Discomfort is Common
In those first few days after giving birth to my newborn, I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety as I began breastfeeding again. It was a bit uncomfortable at first, especially during the latch. Many moms experience this initial discomfort as their bodies adjust to nursing. It’s important to remember that this sensation should ease up quickly—if it doesn’t, something might be off.
Common Causes of Pain
Improper Latch: One of the biggest culprits of breastfeeding pain is an improper latch. With each baby, I learned that ensuring my little one has a wide-open mouth and takes in more than just the nipple can make a world of difference. If you're struggling with this, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from a lactation consultant. I would highly recommend my go-to lactation consultant Ame Odom who owns her practice at cookiesandmilklaction.com and offers virtual consultancy as well.
Engorgement: After my milk came in around day three, I experienced engorgement—my breasts felt full and heavy. This is normal as your body adjusts to producing milk, but it can be uncomfortable. Frequent feeding or pumping helped relieve the pressure.
Infections: Unfortunately, some moms may face issues like thrush or mastitis, which can cause significant pain. If you notice redness or flu-like symptoms alongside breast pain, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider.
Vasospasm: I’ve also heard about vasospasm, where blood flow to the nipple is restricted, causing sharp pain during feeds. If you think you might be experiencing this, it’s worth discussing with your doctor.
The Role of Placenta Encapsulation
One interesting aspect of my postpartum journey has been exploring placenta encapsulation with help from Becky Hines. This process involves consuming your placenta in capsule form after birth and is believed to offer several benefits that can support breastfeeding:
- Increased Milk Supply: Many women report that consuming placenta capsules helps increase their milk production in the early postpartum days. The hormones present in the placenta may assist in stimulating mammary gland development and enhancing overall milk supply.
- Hormonal Balance: The placenta contains hormones that can help stabilize your body’s hormonal levels after delivery. This stabilization may contribute to improved mood and energy levels, which are crucial for new moms trying to establish breastfeeding.
- Nutrient Replenishment: After giving birth, women often experience a significant loss of blood and nutrients. By consuming their placenta, mothers may replenish essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins that support recovery and overall health
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing persistent pain or if your nipples are cracked or bleeding, don’t hesitate to seek help. It’s crucial to address these issues early on so you can enjoy the breastfeeding experience without dread.
Tips for Comfort
Check Positioning: Make sure both you and your baby are comfortable during feeds. Experimenting with different positions helped me find what worked best for each of my children.
Soothing Remedies: Applying lanolin cream or even a little breast milk on sore nipples after feeding can provide relief.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Keeping myself well-hydrated, eating nutrient-rich foods, and snacking on Miracle Milkookies have been essential for my comfort and overall milk supply.
Breastfeeding should not be a painful experience. While some initial discomfort is common as you and your baby learn together, ongoing pain could indicate a problem that needs addressing. Remember that every mother’s journey is unique—what works for one might not work for another.
At Miracle Milkookies , I’m proud to support moms at every stage of their breastfeeding journey. Our delicious lactation cookies are made to nourish you while you nourish your little one!
If you're facing challenges with breastfeeding or considering placenta encapsulation, know that you're not alone. Reach out for support and remember that every drop of milk counts!
Xoxo Whitney