Health Tip: Minimize Breastfeeding Pain
(HealthDay News) -- Breast-feeding can be painful or uncomfortable, but there are things moms can do to make it a more pleasant experience.
The Nemours Foundation mentions these suggestions to help make breast-feeding more comfortable:
Ensure baby is properly latched to the breast.
Apply a special over-the-counter lotion between feedings to prevent dryness.
When you've finished feeding, take a little bit of breast milk and massage the nipples, allowing them to air dry.
Nurse more frequently, but for shorter feedings. Nurse on the breast that is less sore.
Use your finger to gently break baby's suction at the end of a feeding.
Use different feeding positions.
Gently massage the breast or apply gentle heat before a feeding.
Apply a cold compress or ice pack after a feeding.
Feed with stored milk for a few days, allowing cracked nipples to heal.
Drink plenty of fluids, and get as much rest as possible.
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