Vital Baby advice and download centre - Breastfeeding

Frequently Asked Questions:

Advice on Breastfeeding
Questions about weaning your baby
Questions about the Vital Baby products range

Advice on Breastfeeding:

Will my breasts be alright for breast feeding?
I have small, flat nipples, is this a problem?
Will breastfeeding spoil the shape of my breasts?
Will breast feeding increase my weight?
Why isn’t my baby getting enough milk?
Why have I got mastitis?
Why do my nipples feel so sore?
Why am I so exhausted all the time?
Why do my breasts feel full and painful?
What can I do about blocked ducts?
What’s thrush?
How can I stop my breasts leaking?
How can I get over my embarrassment about feeding in public?

Q - Will my breasts be alright for breast feeding?

A - Yes, almost certainly. Many women are sensitive about their breasts being either larger or smaller than they would like, or not quite the same size, but when it comes to breastfeeding the size and shape doesn’t matter. In fact it’s normal for one breast, usually the left, to be a little larger than the other.

If your breasts have always been small, don’t worry. As far as breastfeeding is concerned it’s the growth of the breast during pregnancy that counts and you won’t be any less able to feed your baby than someone who takes a much larger bra size.

Q - I have small, flat nipples, is this a problem?

A- You don’t have to have large nipples to be able to breastfeed successfully, nor do your nipples have to be very prominent. If they seem to be flat, don’t worry. As your pregnancy advances you will probably find that they tend to stand out more anyway and once you start breastfeeding the baby will draw out the nipple. The shape is not all that important as long as the baby is correctly positioned on the breast.

Q - Will breastfeeding spoil the shape of my breasts?

A - Your breasts will alter with pregnancy, whether you breastfeed or not. After the birth, and after you’ve finished breastfeeding, your breasts should gradually return to normal. Even if you don’t usually wear a bra, it’s sensible to do so before the birth and while breastfeeding because of the increased weight of the breasts at this time.

Q - Will breast feeding increase my weight?

A - Don’t worry too much about your weight gain in pregnancy, especially if you are normally within the accepted weight range for your height and frame size. A reasonable weight gain allows proper development of the glandular part of your breasts and is a good start to successful breastfeeding. Breastfeeding itself can help you get your figure back more quickly!

Q - Why isn’t my baby getting enough milk?

A - If your baby isn’t putting on weight or is dehydrated, she may not be getting enough milk. Signs of dehydration are when the fontanelle (the soft patch on top of her head) is sunken and her nappies are dry or the worsening of jaundice (a yellow colouring of the skin).

Most women who feed on demand produce the right amount of milk for their child. The problem is likely to be how you’re feeding her rather than how often. Check your positioning and feed little and often. The more milk she takes the more you’ll produce. If you are concerned that your baby is not getting enough milk your should contact your health visitor who will be able to reassure or advise you after having examined your baby.

Q - Why have I got mastitis?

A - Mastitis occurs when the milk ducts in the breast become blocked; you may develop a painful lump, become feverish and have flu-like symptoms. Try to clear the blockage by continuing to feed your newborn and massaging the areas during feeds. Use a breast pump to express milk from the breast and do backward arm swinging exercises. To numb the pain, take ibuprofen or a similar anti-inflammatory drug (making sure it is safe for nursing mums of course!). If you’re feeling no better after 24 hours you may need antibiotics from your doctor.

Q - Why do my nipples feel so sore?

A - This is probably because your baby isn’t latching on properly. Position her so the nipple is drawn into the back of the mouth – her jaws should be squeezing the milk from the breast, not just sucking from the nipple.

To avoid soreness when taking her off, wait until she pauses for breath or break the suction by putting a finger in the corner of her mouth. At the end of a feed spread a drop of breast milk over your nipples and areola (the pigmented area around your nipple) and let them air-dry to toughen the skin.

Q - Why am I so exhausted all the time?

A - Breastfeeding can make you dehydrated and tired, which can sometimes dry up your milk supply. Find time to relax and unwind by watching your favourite film or you could invite some friends round for a chat.

Ask your partner or relatives to take over doing the chores and make sure you drink plenty of fluids (preferably water). And when your baby takes a nap, do the same. Even a short rest can work wonders for you both.

Q - Why do my breasts feel full and painful?

A - When your breasts are overfull they feel hard and painful (engorgement). It may cause your nipples to flatten, making it difficult for your baby to latch on. Expressing a little milk, massaging the breast with a warm flannel or putting chilled cabbage leaves in your bra can help.

Q - What can I do about blocked ducts?

A - If your ducts are blocked, you’ll feel a sharp pain and may notice a lump or red patch on your breast. Feed from the affected breast, gently massaging towards your nipple.

Q - What’s thrush?

A - This is a fungal infection, which shows up as white spots on your breast and in your baby’s mouth especially inside the cheeks and on the tongue. Your breasts may feel sore and itchy. If you suspect you have thrush you should see your doctor for treatment.

Q - How can I stop my breasts leaking?

A - It’s normal for breasts to leak milk between feeds. You can buy breast pads to absorb any leaks; these are placed inside a well-fitting maternity bra. Take a spare top and bra with you when you’re going out in case of emergencies, and change the breast pads often.

Q - How can I get over my embarrassment about feeding in public?

A - If you’re tense or self-conscious, your milk will not let down easily. Make sure you’re somewhere comfortable when you feed in public the first couple of times, such as at a National Childbirth Trust or clinic get-together where you can compare tips and feeding techniques. Some shops now openly encourage breast feeding. Your local La Leche League will be able to advise you on which.