Nurturing
you through
every feed

Common Breast Challenges

Many mothers experience some discomfort or complications along the way. The good news: most issues are very treatable, especially when caught early. You don't have to push through pain alone.

• Engorgement: Fullness and firmness in the first days — frequent feeds and warm compresses help
• Sore or cracked nipples: Often a latch issue — adjustments can bring quick relief
• Blocked ducts: A firm lump that may be tender — massage, heat, and frequent feeding usually resolves it
• Mastitis: Flu-like symptoms with a red, hot area on the breast — requires prompt attention and sometimes antibiotics
• Thrush: Burning pain during and after feeds — both you and baby need treatment
• Low supply concerns: Often a perception issue, but we can assess and create a plan together
• Oversupply: Can cause discomfort and feeding difficulties — block feeding can help

If you're experiencing any of these, please don't wait it out. Early support makes a significant difference in outcomes and your wellbeing.

What New Parents Need to Know

The early weeks can feel overwhelming. Here's what I find myself telling almost every new parent I work with — the things that make the biggest difference.

• Feed on demand — in the early weeks, aim for 8–12 feeds in 24 hours
• Hunger cues to watch for: rooting, sucking hands, turning head — crying is a late cue
• Milk usually "comes in" day 3–5 — colostrum before that is perfectly sufficient for your newborn
• Night feeds matter — prolactin (the milk-making hormone) peaks at night
• Wet nappies = reassurance — 6+ wet nappies per day after day 5 shows good intake
• Weight loss in newborns — up to 7–10% is normal; regaining to birth weight by 2 weeks
• Partner support is huge — partners can help with burping, settling, and keeping mum fed and hydrated
• It gets easier — typically by 6–8 weeks, feeding feels much more established