The Right Grip: The Pillar of Pain-Free Breastfeeding
For first-time mothers, breastfeeding can seem like a real maze of information. One of the central aspects for a positive experience is the correct grip. Improper latching is one of the main causes of pain, nipple cracks and difficulties in the baby’s weight gain.
During breastfeeding, the baby should latch onto not only the nipple, but also a significant part of the areola, with the mouth wide open and the lips turned outwards. This form of grip allows for effective milk extraction and reduces the risk of nipple injury.
At MaterClinic, the Prepartum and Postpartum Breastfeeding Consultation focuses on teaching and correcting this technique, with the aim of restoring clarity and autonomy to the mother.
Still, we share this document with you so that you can evaluate the positioning individually. If you have any questions or need additional support, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Common problems and reassuring solutions
Even with the best preparation, challenges can arise along the breastfeeding journey.
Cracks and pain
When the grip is adequate, the pain tends to disappear after the first seconds of the feeding. If the pain persists, it is a warning sign. Silver discs can be a useful resource in healing and relieving discomfort, but it is essential to correct the underlying cause, which in most cases is related to the grip. For this, the support of a specialized professional is crucial.
Engorgement and mastitis
An excessively full, tense and painful breast (engorgement) can progress to mastitis, an inflammation of the breast tissue. The approach is to promote effective emptying of the breast, either through frequent breastfeeding, massage, or milk extraction, preferably manual, always respecting the physiology of the breast.
Low milk production
In most situations, the perception of low milk production does not correspond to an effectively insufficient production. Milk production depends mainly on the stimulation and effective emptying of the breast, based on the premise that the more milk extraction there is, the greater its production. When the breast is not emptied, the lactation inhibitory factor is released, a protein that signals the body to reduce milk production as a protective mechanism. Specialized monitoring allows the evaluation of milk transfer and the definition of an adjusted action plan, based on scientific evidence.
MaterClinic’s full support
MaterClinic, founded by Nurse Cláudia Agostinho, is a space for maternal health and well-being in Charneca da Caparica, created in 2019. It provides Postpartum Home Support, designed to reduce anxiety and clarify doubts in the comfort of your home, as well as Breastfeeding Support Consultation in Prepartum and Postpartum, with the aim of promoting a transition to more peaceful and informed parenting.
Our approach is based on scientific evidence, physiology and respect for each family’s decisions, seeking to ensure that their breastfeeding journey takes place with safety, clarity and adequate information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should I seek a breastfeeding consultation?
You should seek support whenever you experience persistent pain, if your baby is not gaining weight properly, or if you have questions about latching, milk production, or the breastfeeding process.
Should breastfeeding hurt?
No. Although there may be some initial sensitivity, persistent pain is not considered normal and, in most cases, is associated with difficulties in latching or positioning. Still, it should be noted that studies show that, for most women, nipple pain tends to decrease between the 7th and 10th day postpartum, regardless of the treatment used (Dennis et al., 2014).
What is the Prepartum Breastfeeding Consultation?
It is an anticipatory consultation, which aims to prepare parents for what to expect from breastfeeding, clarify doubts, demystify concepts and teach basic notions before the birth of their baby.
Scientific Reference
Dennis, C.-L., Jackson, K., & Watson, J. (2014). Interventions for the treatment of sore nipples in breastfeeding women. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2014(12), Article CD007366. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD007366.pub2