Breast care

Proper breast care is important for both you and your baby. Here are some breast care tips for if you are experiencing breast engorgement and/or sore nipples, as well as some other breast care tips:
Breast Care for Breast Engorgement

Express some milk before you breast feed.
Place a warm moist cloth over your breasts; take a warm shower; use cold compresses when expressing milk; use ice packs between feedings. All of these things should help decrease discomfort.
Try multiple positions when feeding your baby – this way, you are more likely to use the milk in all areas of your breast. Sit up; lay down; use the cradle position; use the football hold; etc.
Massage breasts gently, from beneath the arm down toward the nipple.
Ask your lactation consultant or doctor about other methods, including homeopathic medicine, gel packs, cabbage leaves, ultrasound treatments, etc.

Breast Care for Sore Nipples

Talk with your caregiver if you are experiencing sore nipples – while it is common for a mother to have sore nipples when first starting breastfeeding, breastfeeding should not be an overall painful experience. It is not normal to have a sore, cracked, and/or bleeding nipple. These could be signs of an infection.
Try positioning your baby differently – certain positions can cause sore nipples. Your baby should be latching on not just to the nipple, but as much of your areola as possible, too.
To unlatch your baby from your breast, do not just pull him or her off. Instead, first break the suction with your finger.
Start feeding on the breast that is the least sore.
Continue to breastfeed even if you have sore nipples – you can numb your nipple by rubbing ice on it for a few minutes before feeding.
Rinse off your baby’s saliva with water after breastfeeding and pat dry.
Do not use any sort of plastic breast shields or other items that could lock in moisture.
Keep your nipples both dry and warm.
Some caregivers may suggest that you express a little milk and rub it around on your nipples.
Lanolin could also be recommended by a caregiver. Tea bags are something else that a caregiver may suggest.

Other Breast Care Tips

Nursing bra – Cotton bras will give you better circulation. For the most comfort, avoid underwire and choose wide straps. If you do wear an underwire bra, be sure that it fits properly and does not plug your ducts. You can wear your bra while sleeping. Purchase your bra in your last trimester of pregnancy. Be sure there will be room for nursing pads.
Do not use soap on your breasts because it can remove the natural oils of your skin and lead to drying and cracking. Use a warm, wet wash cloth.
Wear cloth breast pads rather than plastic pads (for the most comfort).
Leave your nipples exposed to the air every once in a while – let them breathe.

For more suggestions on proper breast care, be sure to speak with your lactation consultant, caretaker, and/or medical doctor.

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