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If you are concerned that you are not producing enough milk, breastfeeding more often will automatically increase your supply, so don't be afraid to let your baby suck for as long as it is comfortable.
You may have a sleepy baby who needs to be woken for a feed. If your baby needs encouragement, gently brush her mouth with your nipple but don't force it into her mouth. Your baby may fall asleep at the breast after a feed but this only means that she is contented, well fed and doing all right.
Breast-feeding may hurt during the first few weeks because your milk supply has to become established and your nipples are not yet used to your baby's sucking. If the discomfort persists, however, then the positioning of your baby on the breast may not be right and you should experiment. Also check that your baby is latched on properly. If not, your baby may just be sucking the nipple which means she won't be getting enough milk and the more she sucks the more painful it will actually become.
You may experience engorged breasts. This is when your breasts become over-full and painful. Feeding your baby frequently will help and you can ease the swelling by bathing your breasts with warm water or having a hot bath. Smooth out some milk with your fingers, stroking the breast downwards towards the nipple.
If you experience a shooting pain when your baby sucks, you may have a cracked nipple. If your baby is in the correct position even if your nipples are sore, they shouldn't hurt when you are feeding, so check your positioning. Keep sore nipples clean and dry and let the air get to them as much as possible. A nipple shield which fits over your nipple may help, but don't wear it for more than a day or two. Occasionally sore nipples can be caused by thrush in a baby's mouth. If you think this may be the case, discuss the problem with your doctor.
Finally, some nursing mothers can develop a condition called mastitis. . This is an infection of the milk ducts and your breast will be inflamed, hot, and flushed in places. Bathing your breast in warm water, or holding a cold flannel against it, will help to ease any discomfort. You may also need a course of antibiotics to clear up the infection, so consult your doctor.
Sore, cracked nipples and mastitis are usually caused by your baby sucking just the nipple. Make sure your baby takes the nipple and surrounding area well into her mouth when she is feeding.
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