Breastfeeding - Common Concerns

Some women may experience challenges with breastfeeding. It is important to get early help.

Breast Fullness

As your breasts change from making colostrum to making breastmilk, you may feel changes in your breasts such as your breasts feel firmer, larger, heavier and warmer, usually on the second to the sixth day after giving birth. This is normal.

• Keep your baby in close contact with you
• Place your baby skin-to-skin throughout the day
• Watch your baby for feeding cues
• Feed early, often and effectively
• Wear a well-fitting bra with no under wires
• Drink whenever you feel thirsty
• If you are experiencing pain or discomfort please call the Middlesex-London Health Unit to speak with a public health nurse or your healthcare provider for more information.

Nipple pain/discomfort

Breastfeeding should not be painful. A comfortable position and a good latch for both mom and baby is the key to successful breastfeeding. If you are feeling pain or discomfort, a qualified healthcare professional skilled in breastfeeding can help. To speak wtih a public health nurse, phone 519-663-5317.

Using breastfeeding to reduce baby’s pain and discomfort:

Research shows that breastfeeding and holding baby skin-to-skin and breastfeeding helps reduce your baby’s pain and distress during newborn procedures (such as heel pricks or vitamin K injections) and routine immunizations. Find out how to Be Sweet To Babies because newborn screening and immunizations are important -but they don't need to hurt.