Pregnancy And Baby Care Articles Breastfeeding

... sore nipples, lumps in the breast, baby refuses to drink milk, biting and breast infection called mastitis. Sore nipples can be treated by rubbing breast milk on the sore nipple or using a nipple ointment. Lumps in the breast can be dissolved by massaging or using a warm compress on the area. Infants biting during breast feeding can be very painful as well as cause hurt to the nipple. To prevent this you need to teach your baby not to bite by removing the baby from the breast as soon as he/she starts biting and then offer a teething toy. Mastitis includes reddening of areas on the breast along with flu symptoms like aches, temperature and full sore breast. Start by taking rest but keep feeding the baby beginning with the sore side. You could also use cold and warm compress to reduce the swelling. If these don’t help, consult your doctor who most likely will give you antibiotics and painkillers.

While breastfeeding it is advised to keep a few things in mind. The first time you breastfeed let the baby show you he/she is ready and use this opportunity to start. Secondly remember since your breasts have never had so much stimulation there will be discomfort but you will get more comfortable with time. For the first 2-3 weeks concentrate and get to know your baby’s habits. Visits from your family and friends can start once you are more comfortable. Remember, not taking care of yourself can affect your breast milk. An important characteristic of breastfeeding is nutrition. Your breastfeeding diet is directly related to the quality of your milk which in turn influences the growth of your baby. Your breastfeeding and pregnancy diet must include fruits, whole grains, proteins and vegetables which give the baby the necessary nutrients. You just need to make sure you avoid caffeine, alcohol and smoking.

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