Do you have sore nipples, or deep breast pain? Have you read somewhere or been told that this could be caused by thrush? This has been a common suggestion for many years. But research, and what doctors understand about how thrush behaves, is changing our understanding. (1,2,3) Experts are … [Read more...] about Thrush and Breastfeeding
Challenges and Concerns
Nipple Confusion
‘Nipple confusion’, ‘nipple preference’ or ‘flow preference’ is often used to describe a change in a baby’s sucking pattern or their willingness to breastfeed following the introduction of a bottle or dummy. A baby may have difficulty latching or staying on the breast, be fussy or reluctant to … [Read more...] about Nipple Confusion
Nipple Pain
You’ve probably heard a few stories about nipple pain. Some people have horror stories about cracked, bleeding nipples. Others warn you that breastfeeding hurts until your nipples “toughen up.” Some say nursing should never hurt at all, and if it does, you’re “doing it wrong.” So where does this … [Read more...] about Nipple Pain
Engorged Breasts – avoiding and treating
Engorged breasts are painful. They feel heavy, hard, warm and sensitive —as if they are ready to burst! As well as being painful, engorgement can lead to other breastfeeding problems if not treated. Being able to recognise engorgement will help you to treat it promptly, … [Read more...] about Engorged Breasts – avoiding and treating
Mastitis, blocked ducts, and engorgement
Mastitis (breast inflammation), includes a wide range of symptoms, from a small, tender area (often called a blocked duct), through to severe infection. If your breasts are inflamed or swollen, it’s important to act quickly to relieve discomfort and stop it getting worse. You may also … [Read more...] about Mastitis, blocked ducts, and engorgement
The Unhappy Breastfed baby
“The newborn baby has only three demands. They are warmth in the arms of its mother, food from her breasts and security in the knowledge of her presence. Breastfeeding satisfies all three.” ~ Dr Grantly Dick-Read from Birthing Without Fear This simple recipe for keeping a baby happy works for the … [Read more...] about The Unhappy Breastfed baby
Sleepy Baby – Why And What To Do
Nobody likes to disturb a sleeping baby, but sometimes a baby can be too sleepy for their own good. At times like this they may need you to take action. Your newborn baby needs to nurse actively for one or both breast at each feed. Offer the second breast after they seem to have finished at the … [Read more...] about Sleepy Baby – Why And What To Do
Nipple shields
A nipple shield is a thin, silicone teat that can be placed over a mother’s nipple and may help a baby who is having difficulty learning to breastfeed. Holes in the tip allow milk to flow into the baby’s mouth. A nipple shield can be used temporarily to help establish breastfeeding or in some cases … [Read more...] about Nipple shields
My Baby Won’t Breastfeed
This page is about young babies who have never breastfed or who get very upset when offered the breast. If your baby was breastfeeding well but is now refusing, see our page on “nursing strikes”. Sometimes, a new difficulty with feeding is the first sign that the baby is becoming unwell. If you are … [Read more...] about My Baby Won’t Breastfeed
Jaundice in Healthy Newborns
If your new baby has jaundice, it's normal to be worried and concerned. Knowing more about newborn jaundice will help you decide if you need to see medical help and understand why tests may be needed. More than 80% of all newborns appear jaundiced during the first week of life. In most cases, this … [Read more...] about Jaundice in Healthy Newborns