Why are breasts tender and painful when touched during lactation?

Women who are breastfeeding are most afraid of breast problems, because once there is a problem with the breast, it means that the baby’s “food supply” will be cut off. Some women during breastfeeding say that their breasts are soft, but painful when touched. Sometimes the pain is unbearable, making mothers miserable and seriously affecting their lives. The following will explain to mothers why breasts hurt when touched during breastfeeding.

The following are the reasons why breasts hurt when you touch them during lactation

1. Nipple cracking:

Reason: Failure to take good care of breasts during pregnancy; Failure to master correct breastfeeding techniques.

Treatment: Clean and care for the breasts. Apply lanolin after each feeding to keep the nipples soft and smooth. Correct the baby's sucking posture to avoid repeated nipple cracks caused by incorrect sucking. Wear loose cotton underwear and bras and continue breastfeeding. If the pain of nipple cracks affects breastfeeding, you can use a breast pump and a special nipple shield.

2. Breast pain:

Reason 1: Milk stasis

Treatment: Wear a comfortable bra, apply hot compress on the affected side for 3-5 minutes before breastfeeding, massage the breast to clear the lumps, increase the number of feedings, express milk correctly and use a breast pump.

Reason 2: Mastitis

Treatment: Use a breast pump as early as possible. If there is no breast abscess, the expressed milk can continue to be fed. If a breast abscess occurs, the expressed milk should be discarded. You should see a doctor and receive anti-inflammatory treatment under the doctor's guidance.

3. Nipple illusion:

Reason: Within one month after the baby is born, if the mother's milk production is low or the mother and baby are separated for various reasons, such as feeding the baby with milk from a bottle, the baby may no longer be willing to suck the mother's nipple.

Treatment: Maintain confidence in breastfeeding and do not give up breastfeeding easily; make full use of the breast pump to help mothers promote milk secretion in various difficult situations; use auxiliary feeding devices and special feeding cups, and try to avoid using bottles.