Problems with breastfeeding

Leaking

Your milk may start flowing when you're at home and you hear your baby waking up. Or, less conveniently, your breasts may start to leak in the boardroom while You're giving a presentation. Some women can stop the flow by folding their arms and pressing down on their breasts. Others wear print rather than solid-colour tops for camouflage. Breast pads can help prevent leaks from showing, but they should be changed when they get wet or even moist if you want to prevent sore nipples or infection. Pads made from cotton or paper or cotton flannelette are best. Avoid breast pads that have plastic or waterproof liners because they don't allow air to circulate to your nipples.

Breast infection

If your breast is hot, red, and painful and you have flu-like symptoms of fatigue, chills, and a fever, you may have a breast infection called mastitis. It occurs in I to 5 per cent of nursing mothers; its cause may be less frequent nursing, cracked nipples, or inadequate milk drainage.

Be assured that there's nothing wrong with your milk. In fact, for a more rapid recovery, you should nurse more frequently. Offer the baby the painful breast first, varying the baby's position to ensure drainage.

Acetaminophen can reduce pain as well as fever. Applying warm wash cloths to the breast may also offer some comfort. Consult a physician if your symptoms persist for six to eight hours-antibiotics may be necessary.

Plugged milk duct

If you notice a small, hard lump that's sensitive to the touch and may be red, you might have a plugged milk duct. The obstruction may occur because the breast has not been fully drained for a long time or because there has been pressure on the duct. Untreated, a blocked milk duct can cause an infection. Take a hot shower or apply hot compresses, gently massaging the area in the direction of the nipple. Feed your baby every two hours, always starting with the affected breast. Vary your feeding positions to facilitate milk flow. If the lump persists after two days, consult your doctor or lactation consultant.

Breast-feeding in public

A 1995 study by Health Canada revealed that embarrassment to mothers and their partners is a common reason why women choose either not to breast-feed or to stop nursing. Breast-feeding advocates argue that women need not feel ashamed of their bodies; certainly, nursing in public doesn't mean that you flaunt your breasts. To be discreet, choose two-peice outfits with tops that can be lifted to nurse. Go for extra privacy with a jacket or cardigan, drape a shawl over your shoulder, or use a nursing bib.