breastfeeding pain

[precious03]

I have a couple months until this one is born, but I was wondering if any of you have any tips on breastfeeding.  With my daughter I only made it 2 weeks and quit because my nipples were so chapped and it became very painful.  The lactation consultant said she was latching on correctly, but it hurt so bad that I just couldn't keep doing it.  I would like to nurse longer this time, but am wondering if there is anything I can do to alleviate some of the pain?  And how long does that awful time take to get through?

[adawning4]

The lanolin is great for the chapped nipples. When you BF you should be relaxed as possible if you have to turn all the lights off but maybe a night light. Get comfortable. I found the "football" hold to be easiest, put a pillow under baby and cup her head in your hands and relax. The milk will come easier  when you are relaxed and comfortable.... Try not to get frustrated and dont be afraid to ask for help.... GOOD LUCK!!!!!

[Mommy2Tay_Cal]

I BF my daughter for the first year and it took about a month for us to get in down without the aching, chapped nipples. Lanolin was a great find for me as well. Our lactation specialist said my daughter wasn't latching on correctly but if she did it like that lady said it hurt more. I guess it just depends on the baby and the mothers level of comfort. I think if you are at ease it will help things go smoother, at least that's what I have been told. Good luck. Don't give up, it is what is best for your little one now and in the future.

[loismwallace]

I've breastfed all 3 of my kiddos and will be BF this one. I was always told that if it hurts, they aren't latched on correctly. The Lanolin is a  great source of relief.

[precious03]

Thanks, I'll try that.  The only thing they gave me was some aloe patches, and they didn't work at all!

[sfritz]

Did they give you Lanolin when you BF your daughter?  That's what they gave me at the hospital and told me to put it on after every feeding to prevent chapping. After my daughter and I figured out the whole latching on thing I had pain free BF from then on (not counting the times I would become engorged).

You might want to buy some Lanolin at the drug store to take with you to the hospital in case they don't give it to you. It's also great for diaper rash!

Good luck!!