BreastfeedingSolution:Warm water may help to open up the duct. Also apply gentle pressure
on the breast toward the nipple. Nurse frequently to get the milk flowing, starting
with the breast that is clogged. Change nursing positions to let your baby drain
all areas of the breast.Mastitis
Fluid trapped anywhere in the body can become infected. So producing more
milk than your baby consumes, or not nursing long enough or often enough to
empty the breasts, can cause you to get a breast infection called mastitis. Cracked
nipples can also cause this, since they provide an avenue for bacteria to enter the
breast. Mastitis feels like flu, fatigue, fever, chills and aches. Your breasts may
also be engorged or you may see or feel a swollen, tender, red, warm area.
Solution:See your doctor right away because you’ll need an antibiotic that is safe
to take while breastfeeding. In the meantime, you can take a painkiller for the
fever and pain, and apply moist heat to the sore area for ten minutes, at least four
times a day.Leaking
This is when milk leaks from the breasts. It is normal to leak––in fact, leaking is
often a sign of a generous supply. It can occur at the sound of your baby’s cry or
through anything that reminds you of him. Leaking is most likely to occur when
you’re away from the baby during the normal feeding times.
Solution: Folding your arms over your chest and pressing gently inward for 30
seconds or so may suppress squirting milk. You’ll also need to dress for the
occasion with disposable or washable nursing pads. Keep a jacket or sweater on
hand in case you need a cover up. Leaking usually lessens with time as you and
baby get your supply and demand regulated.Maintaining Your Supply
The science of milk-making is simple; the more your baby removes, the more you
produce. When you’re on maternity leave, it is easier to build up a good milk
supply. Just nurse at least every two or three hours, and wake your baby to eat
during the day if he sleeps more than three hours. However, once you return to
work or your baby starts to eat solids, it gets more difficult to implement.
Solution: If you’re away from the baby, don’t wait until your breasts are
uncomfortably full before you pump. Draining them on a frequent basis keeps the
milk flowing. Also, nurse more frequently and exclusively at night-time and on
weekends.^5