‘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
Challenges and Concerns
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
Engorgement is common and can be very uncomfortable, but there are simple ways to relieve it and protect your milk supply. 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 … [Read more...] about Engorged Breasts – avoiding and treating
Mastitis, blocked ducts, and engorgement: what to do when your breasts are inflamed
Have you got discomfort or pain from swelling in one or both breasts? Mastitis (breast inflammation) covers a range of symptoms — from a small, tender area (often called a blocked duct) through to severe infection. This article explains what causes breast inflammation, how to treat it, and … [Read more...] about Mastitis, blocked ducts, and engorgement: what to do when your breasts are inflamed
The Unhappy Breastfed Baby
Crying and ‘colic’ in babies: causes, comfort tips, and when to get help. All over the world, most young babies cry. Some babies cry much more than others. Living with a baby who can’t be comforted is really hard. You need support for yourself. The Art of Breastfeeding, 9th edition, La … [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. Most newborns do sleep a lot in the first week or two, but some babies are so sleepy that they need extra support with feeding until their energy increases. If your newborn is very sleepy, there are … [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
Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk?
How do you tell if your baby is getting enough milk? In a world where everything is measured, it can be nerve-wracking when you can’t see how much milk your breasts are making. Follow your baby not the book Weight gain Dirty nappies How frequently are you breastfeeding? Sleepy … [Read more...] about Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk?