Overcoming breastfeeding problems

Try to make sure baby is latching correctly. Their mouth should cover more of the areola at the bottom of the nipple than the top. Read our guide to getting a good latch for more tips. 

Talk to your midwife or healthcare provider (HCP) if feeding is painful. It could be because baby is not latching properly.   

Try brushing baby’s top lip against your nipple to open their mouth.  

Use nipple cream or expressed breast milk between feeds to soothe any pain or dryness. 

Try warm compresses if you have clogged ducts. See your midwife or HCP for more advice. 

Try to express by hand before feeding if milk supply is high or breasts are engorged.  

Try feeding more often if breasts become engorged.  

Keep feeding as often as you can early on to boost supply, as breast milk works on a supply and demand basis. 

If inverted nipples are causing problems, speak to your midwife or HCP.  

Try to breast pump before nursing if inverted nipples are proving hard to latch on to.  

Try baby on the fuller breast for a more effective feed if they fall asleep during feeding.  

Try tickling baby’s feet if they fall asleep too soon during feeding.   

Wear extra pads if you drop a feed. Breasts take a while to get the memo.  

Try and feed or breast pump more often, with an HCP’s guidance, if mastitis is an issue. Read 8 ways to help prevent mastitis for more tips.

Talk to your HCP if you think you have mastitis. 

Talk to your HCP or lactation consultant if you’re suffering painful letdown. 

Try different holds if a fast letdown is an issue or baby seems uncomfortable during feeds. Check out our guide to different breastfeeding positions.

Remember, breastfeeding problems should ease over time.