Breastfeeding Shouldn’t Be Painful. But Many Women Struggle Silently
Breastfeeding challenges are common, but you don’t have to push through pain or confusion alone.
At Prajnam, we help new mothers understand what’s causing the difficulty and treat it early with expert support and gentle care.
What Are Breastfeeding Difficulties?
Breastfeeding difficulties can appear in the early days or weeks after delivery - and may include pain, swelling, nipple issues, or trouble with milk flow.
Mothers often experience:
Engorgement or heaviness
Nipple cracks or bleeding
Low or oversupply of milk
Difficulty latching
Painful breastfeeding
Baby refusing the breast
These problems are common and treatable – and getting the right help early makes breastfeeding smoother and more comfortable.
Types of Breastfeeding Difficulties
Latch & Positioning Problems
One of the most common reasons for breast pain during feeding.
- Baby struggles to latch
- Nipple feels pinched or pulled
- Feeding feels painful or incomplete
Engorgement or Blocked Milk Ducts
Breasts feel very full, hard, or tense.
- Pain and heaviness
- Localised swelling
- Difficulty expressing milk
- Risk of infection if untreated
Nipple Pain, Cracks, or Bleeding
Caused by shallow latch, frequent feeding, or incorrect positioning.
- Sharp or burning pain
- Visible cracks or wounds
- Can make each feed painful
Mastitis or Breast Abscess
A serious but treatable condition.
- Redness, warmth, swelling
- Fever or body aches
- Sharp pain during feeding
- May progress to pus collection (abscess)
Common Causes of Breastfeeding Difficulties
Improper Latch or Position
The most frequent cause of pain, swelling, and nipple damage.
Engorgement After Delivery
Milk coming in rapidly can cause intense fullness and discomfort.
Blocked Ducts
Local pain, lumps, and reduced milk flow.
Nipple Shape Concerns
Makes latching challenging but very manageable with guidance.
Infection / Mastitis
Painful inflammation that may require antibiotics or drainage.
Tongue Tie in Baby
A restricted tongue movement leads to poor latch and painful feeding.
Excessive Pumping or Irregular Feeding Schedule
Can disrupt milk supply and lead to swelling or blocked ducts.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should seek expert help if you notice:
Persistent pain during or after feeding
Redness, swelling, or warmth in one breast
Fever with breast pain
Baby not latching or feeding well
A lump that doesn’t go away after feeding
Cracks, bleeding, or severe nipple soreness
Signs of a blocked duct or mastitis
Pus-like discharge or suspected abscess
Persistent pain during or after feeding
Redness, swelling, or warmth in one breast
Fever with breast pain
A lump that doesn’t go away after feeding
Baby not latching or feeding well
Cracks, bleeding, or severe nipple soreness
Signs of a blocked duct or mastitis
Pus-like discharge or suspected abscess
Frequently Asked Questions ?
No – mild tenderness is normal initially, but pain is not. Pain usually means something needs correction.
Yes – blocked ducts, engorgement, or infections can cause temporary lumps.
No – in most cases, continuing to breastfeed helps resolve the infection faster.
Yes – with proper techniques and support, most mothers can breastfeed successfully.
Most supply issues can be improved with correct latch, frequent feeds, and guidance.
Still struggling with breastfeeding pain or difficulty?
Let our breast expert help you feed comfortably – with clarity, support, and the right treatment.
Still struggling with breastfeeding pain or difficulty?
Let our breast expert help you feed comfortably – with clarity, support, and the right treatment.
Breast Conditions
Contact Us
39 & 40 Ground Floor, M2K Corporate Park,
Sector 51, Gurgaon