DIFFICULTIES THAT MAY ARISE & RELIEF TIPS Flat or inverted nipples Some women have flat or inverted nipples. This may make breastfeeding difÏcult, especially if your baby is not positioned or latched on the right way. Once your baby gets used to your nipple, breastfeeding goes just fine. If latch-on hurts, ask for help. Try wearing breast shields between feedings. It might help to use a breast pump just before nursing. When babies are correctly latched on, they suck on the breast and not the nipple. These tips may help: • Roll your nipple between your fingers just before nursing • Use a breast pump at the start of a feeding to help draw your nipple out Blocked ducts Blocked ducts feel like pea-size lumps under the skin of the breast. They are usually sore to the touch. They are caused by skipping or changing feedings, a large milk supply, heavy breasts not well supported, wearing a tight bra with underwires, or a poor breastfeeding position. These tips may help: • Apply a warm washcloth or take warm showers • Nurse often • Hand express or gently pump after feedings • Gently massage your breast Mastitis If a blocked duct continues, it can become inflamed. This is an infection of the milk duct. It can often feel like the flu. If you feel chills or are achy, and breastfeeding is not going well, ask for help right away. Watch out for unusual warmth, redness, tenderness, or swelling in part of or in the entire breast. Mastitis often causes pain and can start quickly. Your breast milk is safe, but the area around the blocked milk duct needs medical attention. It is safe to breastfeed from that breast. For relief: • Visit your doctor for antibiotics (this is safe for both you and your baby) • Nurse often • Apply a warm washcloth and take warm showers • Gently massage your breast while nursing • Rest more often and drink more fluids Overcoming common breastfeeding concerns Page 3 of 4