1. Improper Latching:
This is one of the main reasons mums stop breastfeeding early, as an improper latch can lead to low milk production and painful feedings.
My Top Tips for a Perfect Latch
● Aim nipple to nose
● “U” shaped breast
● Be patient for baby to open wide.
● Chin to breast
● Both lips flanged out
These are signs of a good latch.
Listen for swallows
A good feed typically lasts for 10-20 min. Offer both breasts per feed
especially in the early days.
2. Low Milk Production:
Before you doubt yourself, remember that as you listen to baby’s
cues and feed on-demand, it is likely that your supply is just fine.
Below are some of my top tips for increasing milk supply.
● Ensure an optimal latch. If the latch isn’t great, milk is not
being removed efficiently and thus ineffectively signaling the
body to make more.
● Increasing frequency of feeds. Frequency is more important
than overall time spent expressing.
● Double pumping after a feed. Do as many times as you can
throughout the day, start small and work up. Try this for 48 hours.
3. Nipple Pain and Breakdown:
Many problems with sore nipples and pain will be helped by
ensuring a proper latch every time. But here are extra ways to care
for your nipples so that breastfeeding is pain free.
● Keeping nipples clean and dry
● Use nipple cream or some of your milk on your nipples
● If there is a break in your skin or pain persists past 14 days
seek professional help from your IBCLC immediately.
Catching this quickly can help prevent infections and other
complications.
Julia Daly
IBCLC
www.morethanmilk.co.nz