It may be common, but pain during breastfeeding is not normal. Breastfeeding should be a pleasant experience for both the mother and the baby. Not every breastfeeding journey involves pain, but it can happen.

There are several factors that can cause pain during breastfeeding. One of the most common is improper positioning of the baby. As a result, the baby may not latch onto the breast correctly, which can lead to cracked or injured nipples.

If these cracks are not properly cared for, they can develop into a condition known as mastitis an inflammatory process that affects the breasts and can facilitate bacterial infection. In addition to pain, mastitis can cause swelling, fever, chills, and redness in the mother.

How to Adjust the Latch

• The baby’s mouth should be wide open, with the lips turned outward

• In addition to the nipple, the baby should take in a large portion of the areola, making it more visible above the baby’s mouth

• The baby’s cheeks should appear full, not sunken, while sucking

• The baby’s chin should touch the breast, and the nostrils should remain free for breathing

• The baby’s body should be facing the mother’s body belly to belly

Another factor that can cause pain during breastfeeding is breast engorgement. This condition occurs when milk builds up in the breast because the baby is not able to remove it effectively. In these cases, the milk becomes trapped, making the breasts hard, swollen, and painful.

To help relieve engorgement, you can gently massage the breasts using circular motions over the hardened areas, which helps the milk flow more easily. In addition, applying cold compresses between feedings can also provide relief.