Pain While Breastfeeding: How To Find Relief

Many expecting mothers dream of the sweet, tender moments they’ll have while breastfeeding and bonding with their newborn. They may not anticipate the sometimes difficulty that can arise in those first few days and weeks.

“Breastfeeding is very natural and beautiful, but it’s not always intuitive,” explains Libby Milch, MSN, RN, IBCLC, lead lactation consultant at Franciscan Health Indianapolis. “You need a village of people and professionals around you to help you get started correctly, comfortably, and confidently.”

Lactation consultants can help with many common concerns, including sore, cracked or bleeding nipples, as well as clogged ducts and mastitis, an inflammation of breast tissue that requires antibiotics. Libby reassures moms that breastfeeding can be a pain-free and wonderful experience with a little problem-solving and support.

5 Common Causes Of Pain While Breastfeeding

The lactation consultants at Franciscan Health regularly work with new moms struggling with breastfeeding. With an average of 180 births each month in Indianapolis alone, lactation consultants help countless moms get into the groove of breastfeeding. One of the most common questions they field is about pain while breastfeeding.

“Breastfeeding should not feel painful,” Milch said. “It should be a gentle tug or pull, rather than a pinch. We encourage all new moms to reach out to one of our consultants so we can get more information to better understand what type of pain they’re experiencing when they feel it and how intense it is.”

Milch shared common causes of pain while breastfeeding.

Improper Latch

Improper latch feels like: Nipple pain or pinching

“Newborns are not always good at getting a deep latch,” Milch said. “They can have very tight jaws, tongue restrictions, high palates. Moms need to know what a good latch looks like and how to get baby placed correctly during feedings.”

Milch encourages mothers struggling to get baby to latch to call the lactation department at Franciscan Health. Poor latch can cause blistering, bleeding around the nipples, and scabbing which can become an infection point.

“Latch is something that can easily be addressed, but it’s often one of the primary reasons women stop breastfeeding,” she said.

Franciscan Health offers private consultations where they can help moms feel more comfortable. Group sessions are also available where new moms share tips and techniques, have baby weighed before and after feedings, and hear tips from a lactation consultant.

Engorgement

Engorgement feels like: Swollen, tender, or uncomfortable breasts

When mom’s milk “comes in” or increases (typically around three days after delivery), breasts can change drastically. Women with smaller breasts may have a noticeable difference in the size of their breasts, while women with larger breasts may notice their breasts feel firmer and fuller.

“Engorgement doesn’t typically cause pain, but it can be uncomfortable,” Milch said. “It starts to feel better after the first feedings and as mom gets used to her new body.”

Breast, Nipple Changes

Breast or nipple changes feel like: Sensitive around breasts and nipples

Engorgement isn’t the only change a woman will have to her breasts during breastfeeding. Before baby arrives, she’ll notice other changes to her breasts and nipples. These shouldn’t feel painful, but mom may notice new sensitivity or tenderness.

“Women should get to know their breasts before and during pregnancy and while breastfeeding,” Milch said. “It’s crucial for moms to know what’s going on with their breasts while they’re breastfeeding so we can address any problems before they become serious issues.”

Clogged Or Plugged Milk Ducts

Clogged or plugged milk ducts feel like: Hard, swollen area that feels hot, painful to touch

Plugged or clogged milk ducts are another common cause of pain for breastfeeding moms. A clogged duct happens when a milk duct in your breast gets clogged or has poor drainage. It might happen if your baby skips a feeding or doesn’t empty your breast completely. Stress can impact good emptying of the breast.

Fortunately, moms can find relief with gentle massage, heat, or even in a warm shower.

“It’s very important to work to get rid of a clogged duct – not only because it’s painful for mom, but because it can also lead to mastitis,” Milch said.

Mastitis

Mastitis feels like: The flu

Mastitis occurs when inflammation of the breast becomes severe enough that it triggers a full-body immune system response, or it is the result of an infection.  Symptoms of mastitis include:

• Heat, redness, hardness, pain, or tenderness around the breast
• Fever and chills

“If your breast is red and you feel like you have the flu, you may have mastitis,” Milch said. “It’s important to call your doctor immediately so you can start antibiotics to treat the infection and start feeling better soon.”

Support For Your Family And Breastfeeding Goals

Milch encourages all moms to consider breastfeeding but assures moms that there is no pressure about what she ultimately chooses for her family.

“Breastfeeding is an afterthought for many moms because they think it’s natural and it will work if it is going to work,” she said. “It’s not always that easy. We just want moms to know they have the support and resources to figure out breastfeeding. But at the end of the day, we are here to support families and healthy babies, no matter how they are fed.”

Find Support On Your Breastfeeding Journey

Our lactation specialists are here to encourage, educate and empower you throughout your breastfeeding experience. Call us today to connect with the resources you and baby need – and want.

• Breastfeeding Hotline – Leave a message 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with your breastfeeding questions or concern, and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.
• Breastfeeding Class – Learn what to expect during breastfeeding and prepare for the experience before baby even arrives.
• Support Groups – Connect with other mothers and lactation specialists.