14 ketteringhealth.org Breastfeeding comes with changes that might be concerning or embarrassing for women—even though they’re completely normal. Lactation Consultant Michelle Gnagey offers help for new moms. Why am I leaking breast milk? “It can happen for a number of reasons,” Michelle says. You might notice leaking when hearing a baby cry or even when thinking about your baby. This is due to the “milk ejection” or “let-down” reflex, in which oxytocin (sometimes called the “love” hormone) causes breast milk to flow. You may also experience leaking if you overproduce breast milk. Michelle recommends fabric breast pads to prevent milk from leaking through your clothing. Avoid pads with plastic lining, which can break down nipple tissue. Why are my breasts sore? Breast soreness, Michelle assures, is typical and usually goes away within a week. “There can be some soreness,” she says, “but there shouldn’t be any pain.” Pain while breastfeeding is likely due to a latching or positioning problem. Your lactation consultant can help. Engorgement, an inflammatory response where breast tissue around milk glands swells, is a common cause of soreness in the early days of breastfeeding. “Your breasts aren’t used to having milk in them,” Michelle explains. Why do I have dry skin and cracked nipples? While breastfeeding, your nipples may become dry EMBARRASSED TO ASK? What to know about breastfeeding YOU’RE NOT ALONE For breastfeeding and maternity support, visit ketteringhealth.org/maternity Michelle Gnagey is an international board-certified lactation consultant with Kettering Health or cracked. They may even bleed. Instead of creams or lotions, which can cause further irritation, Michelle suggests using a few drops of breast milk to soothe the skin. Allow your nipples to air dry before dressing to prevent clothes from sticking and chafing. However, Michelle says bleeding and irritated nipples indicate an issue a lactation consultant can correct. How do I know if I have an infection? A tender knot in your breast with skin that’s red and warm likely means you have a plugged milk duct. Though uncomfortable, plugged ducts are harmless, but can lead to an infection of your breast tissue, called mastitis, if left uncleared for longer than a few days. Massage the area during feeding to clear the blockage. Don’t be afraid to ask If you have questions or concerns, reach out. Your lactation consultant has likely seen it all—there’s no need to feel uncomfortable. “When it comes to breastfeeding, there’s really not a question that would embarrass a lactation consultant,” Michelle says.
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