Solutions for breastfeeding problems - thrush and cracked nipples treatment

Common breastfeeding problems and solutions: It can be hard to ask for help, but tackling any problems as soon as they start will give you more time to enjoy these early days. In lots of cases, the solution is as simple as changing your baby’s position slightly or feeding them a bit more often.

Unsettled breastfed baby   

If your baby is unsettled at the breast and doesn’t seem satisfied by feeds, it may be that they are sucking on the nipple alone, and so are not getting enough milk.

Ask for help to get your baby into a better feeding position.

Sore cracked nipples treatment  

If your nipples hurt, take your baby off the breast and start again. If the pain continues or your nipples start to crack or bleed, ask for help so you get your baby latched on comfortably. It can sometimes take a little while to sort out how to prevent the soreness, but it is important to get support as soon as possible.

The following suggestions may also help:

• Try squeezing out a drop or two of your milk at the end of a feed and gently rubbing it into your skin. Let your nipples dry before covering them.

• If you are using breast pads, they need to be changed at each feed (if possible, use pads without a plastic backing).

• Avoid soap as it dries your skin out.

• Wear a cotton bra, so air can circulate.

• Some mothers treat any cracks or bleeding with a thin smear of white soft paraffin or purified lanolin. Put the ointment on the crack (rather than the whole nipple) to help it heal and prevent a scab forming.

Thrush in breastfeeding symptoms  

If you suddenly get sore, bright pink nipples after you have been feeding without problems for a while, you might have an infection known as thrush. Ask for help to check that your baby is latched on properly, and make an appointment with your GP.

You and your baby will both need treatment. You can easily give thrush to each other, so if your baby has it in their mouth you will still need some cream for your nipples to stop it spreading to you. You may want to ask your pharmacist for advice. Some antifungal creams can be bought over the counter from a pharmacy.