What problems may occur when breastfeeding?
• Decreased nipple blood supply: This can cause you to have pain and blanching (becoming pale) of your nipples while breastfeeding. Decrease the amount of caffeine you drink, such as in coffee, tea, and soda, to help prevent nipple blanching. Do not smoke and avoid being in cold areas. Certain medicines may make your blood vessels get narrow and decrease blood flow to the nipples. Always ask your caregiver before using any medicine. Let him know when you have nipple blanching. • Engorgement: Although it is normal for your breasts to fill with milk, they can become too full. Breast engorgement is a condition where your breasts are painful and very swollen from too much milk inside. Breastfeeding your baby often will help empty the milk and prevent engorgement. If your baby cannot empty your breast milk, you can express milk from your breasts by hand or with a breast pump. Ask your caregiver for more information about breast fullness verses breast engorgement. Tell your caregiver if you
