Besrey - Jan 29 2026

The Ultimate Guide to Breastfeeding Problems

Although breastfeeding is described as a natural process, in real life it isn't always easy. Many parents find breastfeeding complicated in the first few days after birth, and it can even extend for months. From supply concerns and nipple pain to storage and warming questions, these challenges can feel overwhelming without clear, reliable guidance.

In this guide, we'll explore the most common breastfeeding problems, explain why they occur, and offer practical solutions. Whether you're exclusively breastfeeding, pumping, or combining breastfeeding with formula, understanding the full workflow—from feeding at the breast to safe storage and warming—can reduce stress and help you feed with confidence.

Supply Issues: Low or Oversupply

Oversupply (Too Much Milk)

What happens? The breasts feel constantly full even after feeding, the ducts become blocked, and mastitis develops. What causes it? Overstimulation or excessive milk expression to build up reserves, or even hormonal factors. How can we manage it? Offer only one breast to block or reduce overproduction, reduce pumping, apply cold compresses to reduce pain and swelling, and finally, use relaxed breastfeeding positions to help the baby manage the rapid flow.

Low Supply (Not Enough Milk)

What's happening? The baby isn't gaining weight properly, is wetting fewer than six diapers a day after the first week, and is constantly hungry or restless. What's the cause? Poor latch, infrequent feedings, lack of on-demand feeding, stress, or medical factors. How can we manage it? By increasing feeding frequency and skin-to-skin contact, since spending time with the baby in skin-to-skin contact will stimulate milk-producing hormones. Try gentle massages on your breasts before and during feedings, make sure the baby is in a position that facilitates feeding, and very importantly, stay hydrated and eat nutritious food.

In any case, it is always recommended to consult with your trusted doctor.

Breast & Nipple Conditions

Common breastfeeding breast and nipple conditions—including pain, engorgement, cracked nipples, mastitis, and thrush—are usually caused by improper latch, restricted milk flow, or infection. The causes range from poor attachment; in the case of mastitis, it is caused by a bacteria that generates symptoms similar to a cold, and thrush, which is due to a fungal infection that damages the nipples and causes pain and burning after breastfeeding.

These tips will help you prevent these situations:
•Ensure the baby takes a large mouthful of breast, not just the nipple.
•Empty breasts at least 8 times in 24 hours to avoid engorgement and blocked ducts.
•Apply breastmilk to nipples after feeds and let air dry; avoid harsh soaps.
•Use cold packs to reduce swelling (after feeds) and warm compresses to help with milk flow (before feeds).
Pain is not normal; persistent soreness requires prompt intervention, such as adjusting positioning, frequent feeding, and consulting a lactation consultant to prevent complications.

Baby-Side Issues

Babies also face challenges when it comes to feeding time. For example:

· Side Preference: Babies may prefer a specific side, either for comfort or to mimic the fetal position they were in in the womb. What can we do? Try different positions and adjust to their preferred side.
· Nursing Strikes: Often, babies refuse to feed, whether due to pain, colic, or fatigue. What can we do? You can try feeding them while they are asleep, never force the baby, and use skin-to-skin contact.
· Slow Weight Gain/Low Supply: Often a baby may experience difficulty with a breast that has a low flow. What can we do? Pump the less-preferred breast to maintain supply and encourage the baby to return to it.
· Thrush (Yeast Infection): If the baby has oral thrush, it can cause pain during feeding, leading to refusal. What can we do? Both baby and mother require antifungal treatment from a doctor.

Storage, Thawing, and Warming

Regarding the best handling of breast milk, below we share specific tips to consider:

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

Breast milk can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 hours, however if you put it in the refrigerator, it can be used for up to four days, ideally it should be frozen and can be kept frozen for up to 6 months. Store in 2–4-ounce portions, label with dates, and place in the back of the fridge/freezer. Also Use BPA-free plastic bags or glass bottles with tight lids.

Thawing Breast Milk

The best method is to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight. Another quick method is to place it in a container and run it under warm water or in a bowl of warm water. Remember never to freeze thawed milk. Another rule is Once thawed, use within 24 hours (keep in the fridge).

Warming Breast Milk

To warm breast milk, place the bottle or bag in a bowl of warm water. Do not use a microwave or stovetop, as this will destroy the milk's nutrients. Always test the temperature on your wrist before giving it to your baby. Once warmed, it can only be used for up to 2 hours.

Red Flags & When to Seek Medical Care

While many breastfeeding challenges are normal and temporary, some situations require immediate professional attention. Consult your doctor when:

Maternal Red Flags (Seek Care Promptly):

If you experience a fever above 38°C, flu-like symptoms, or abnormal breast color, severe pain in your nipples or head, nipple bleeding, dizziness, vision changes, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or extreme abdominal pain, seek medical attention. We also shouldn't underestimate the importance of mental health, including postpartum depression, anxiety, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.

Infant Red Flags (Contact Pediatrician/Lactation Consultant):

If you notice your baby isn't gaining weight but is actually losing it in the two weeks following birth, seek medical attention. Signs of dehydration include fewer than six wet diapers per day, or orange or bright yellow urine. If your baby is drowsy and has difficulty waking up to feed, or refuses to eat, go to the emergency room. Seek medical attention if your baby has difficulty breathing, pale skin, cries incessantly, or develops a fever.

Conclusion

Many situations—some uncomfortable—will arise during breastfeeding, but they are actually quite common and do not represent a failure as parents. With the right information, support, and tools, many challenges during this stage can be overcome. By understanding what supplies you need, properly recognizing breast and baby discomfort, and following a correct storage protocol, you can make this stage a pleasant and sustainable experience.

Every feeding experience is different. Whether you're exclusively breastfeeding, pumping, supplementing, or transitioning between methods, the goal is the same: a healthy baby and a supported parent. You're doing better than you think, and help is always accessible.

Article credit: 
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