Breastfeeding is the recommended form of baby feeding. It provides optimal nutrition and protects newborns from disease. The evidence shows that breastfed babies enjoy better health outcomes than babies who are fed with alternative foodstuffs, such as formula. For mothers, too, breastfeeding can have important health benefits. That said, keep in mind that it is ultimately the mother's choice wheth…

Nipple problems such as pain and soreness are common during breastfeeding. They are usually caused by incorrect attachment of the baby to the breast, which can be corrected with advice from a midwife, nurse or lactation consultant.…

Mastitis is the inflammation of the breast tissue, commonly due to an infection in women who are breastfeeding. It normally occurs in the first three months of breastfeeding. It typically causes pain and redness in the breast.…

Blocked milk ducts are a common problem for lactating mothers. About two thirds of breastfeeding mothers experience a blocked milk duct at some point. When a baby is born, the mother's body produces breastmilk (a process known as lactation). Breastmilk provides the baby with all of its nutritional requirements for the first few months of life. Breastmilk is produced in the mammary glands within th…

Breast engorgement is when too much breastmilk is produced, making your breasts feel heavy and uncomfortable. Breastfeeding may be more difficult, as your baby is unable to attach to very full breasts. Heat packs can help with the letdown of breast milk and cold packs can relieve the discomfort.…

Breastfeeding offers a range of health benefits for a mother and her newborn baby. Breastmilk offers the baby protection against infection and studies have indicated that breastfed children are less likely to develop skin allergies, asthma, diabetes and bowel disease later in life and have improved cognitive development. Breastfeeding also helps bonding between a mother and her baby. Although it i…