After feeding, the chest hurts

Breastfeeding is not only a natural way to meet the child's needs, but a great opportunity for mom to communicate with her baby. However, almost every woman encountered unpleasant sensations when breastfeeding. Why does the chest hurt after feeding, we learn from our article.

The nature of pain and its causes

In the first three months after childbirth, the mother may feel a tingling sensation in her breast after feeding. This is a normal reaction of the body to the release of the hormone oxytocin. It helps to reduce the uterus, as well as the muscles of the chest, which leads to the allocation of another portion of milk. The chest swells and thickens. Some women say that they have a breach or stigma after breastfeeding.

If the baby can not cope with the increased volume of milk, painful seals in the breast can be felt not only before, but also after feeding, there is a risk of lactostasis , or milk stagnation in the breast after feeding. At the same time, the skin becomes hot and cyanotic at the place of compaction. In this case it is necessary to express the breast by hand or with the help of a breast pump. If this is not done, it is possible to develop mastitis.

Mastitis occurs as a result of the penetration of microbes into milky lobules. In this case, the cones (seals) in the breast after breastfeeding themselves to dissolve is quite difficult. Especially dangerous purulent mastitis, which is characterized by a strong throbbing pain in the chest, purulent discharge from the chest during and after feeding and increased temperature. In this case, urgent medical care, and often - and surgical intervention.

Itching and burning sensation in the chest after breastfeeding speak about the development of thrush in the nursing mother. Candida fungi enter the milk ducts if the baby has stomatitis. After breast feeding, the chest scratches especially hard, and the nipples become too sensitive. Independently to cope with the disease is difficult, especially since it is necessary to treat both mother and child.

Breast care after feeding

In order to avoid problems with breastfeeding, nursing mothers need to take special care of the breast. Doctors recommend washing the mammary glands with warm water before each feeding, taking a shower every day. During the water procedures, the chest can be gently massaged in a circular motion. After each feeding, it is necessary to take air baths for 15 minutes. But direct sunlight for the chest is more harmful than good. And of course, you need to properly put the baby to his chest.