5 common breastfeeding problems 

Motherhood is more than pregnancy and this comes with a lot of challenges. Breastfeeding is one of those challenges that women face postpartum. Let’s have a look at common issues that women face while breastfeeding. 

1. Sore nipples: Sore nipples are slightly common in the first couple of weeks after delivery. However, if the pain increases or becomes unbearable then there is usually something wrong and most often, it is the latch which is causing the issue. So, a good assessment of the latch by a professional will help you resolve the issue. 

2. Engorgement: Engorgement is basically overflowing breasts with breast milk. Now, newborn babies will feed every 2-3 hours, usually around 8-12 times in 24 hours. Now, if the baby doesn't latch or if the baby does not drink milk from the breast directly, your breast is not being drained frequently and if that happens, that can lead to engorgement.Talking with a lactation expert can help.

3. Leaking breasts: Leaking breasts are common usually because in the first 2 months after delivery. This happens because Oxytocin (a hormone that is responsible for the release of breast milk from your breast) can be triggered by several sources. By looking at your baby, by hearing your baby cry, or even by thinking about your baby. All of these can lead to oxytocin release and the minute that happens, your breast starts to let down milk, and that is why a little bit of milk leaks out of the breasts. This is common, however, it tends to slow down by about 5-6 months post-delivery and then completely diminish. 

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4. Low milk supply: Low milk supply can happen mainly because the breasts are not being drained frequently. Breasts are used to produce milk and if the milk is not frequently removed from the breast, the signal that goes to our body is that breast milk is not required and that's why the supply starts to go down. You can consult a lactation expert to get help.

5. Poor latch: A poor latch can happen because of several reasons again. Can be due to breast anatomy, for example, inverted or flat nipples can be due to incorrect positioning or holds. A good assessment of latch by your healthcare provider will help you resolve the issue, and help you breastfeed successfully.