Breastfeeding Problems New Moms Often Face — And What You Can Do.

Breastfeeding can be a beautiful part of motherhood, but it doesn't always come easily. During the first few weeks, new moms may experience sore nipples, uncomfortable or engorged breasts, leaking milk, or difficulty getting their baby to latch.

Breastfeeding is a learning process for both mom and baby, and it can take time to find a comfortable feeding routine that works for both of you. CDC — What to Expect While Breastfeeding

Here are four common breastfeeding challenges new moms may experience — and what you can do.

Sore or Painful Nipples

“Is it normal for breastfeeding to hurt?”

Some nipple tenderness can happen during the early days as you and your baby adjust to breastfeeding. However, persistent or severe pain shouldn't simply be ignored.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), persistent nipple pain can have several possible causes, including latch problems, nipple injury, infection, breast pump trauma and other conditions. ACOG — Breastfeeding Challenges

One common cause is an uncomfortable or shallow latch. The Australian Breastfeeding Association notes that small changes in how you position your baby or how your baby attaches to the breast may help when nipples are sore. Australian Breastfeeding Association — Why Are My Nipples Sore?

What you can try:

• Adjust your baby's position and latch.

• Try a different breastfeeding position.

• If the latch doesn't feel right, gently break the suction and try again.

• If the pain continues, speak with a healthcare professional or breastfeeding specialist.

If your nipples are cracked, bleeding or becoming increasingly painful, it's worth getting professional help to identify the cause.

Breast Engorgement

“Why do my breasts suddenly feel so full and uncomfortable?”

During the first few days after giving birth, your breasts may become noticeably fuller, heavier, warmer or firmer as your milk supply increases.

The Australian Breastfeeding Association explains that this commonly occurs around day 2 to 5 after birth, although the timing can vary between mothers. When the breasts become particularly hard, swollen and tender, this is known as engorgement. Australian Breastfeeding Association — Engorgement

ACOG also describes engorgement as a common physiological change that can occur as mature milk production increases. ACOG — Breastfeeding Challenges

What you can try:

• Breastfeed frequently according to your baby's needs.

• Make sure your baby is able to attach comfortably.

• Avoid bras or clothing that feel overly tight.

• If necessary, hand express a small amount of milk to relieve discomfort or help soften the breast for latching.

• Try a cool pack between feeds if your breasts feel uncomfortable.

If engorgement is severe or doesn't improve, speak with your midwife, doctor or lactation consultant.

Leaking Breast Milk

“Why am I leaking milk when my baby isn't even feeding?”

For many breastfeeding moms, leaking is simply part of the journey.

Breasts can leak during or between feeds, particularly during the early days. Some mothers may leak frequently, while others may hardly leak at all — and both can be normal. Australian Breastfeeding Association — Leaking Breasts

Leaking can also happen from the opposite breast while your baby is feeding because of the milk let-down reflex. Australian Breastfeeding Association — Leaking Breasts

What can make everyday life easier?

Breast pads can help absorb unexpected leaks throughout the day.

A comfortable nursing bra can also make it easier to wear breast pads while providing convenient access for breastfeeding.

When choosing a nursing bra, look for:

• Comfortable support without feeling too tight

• Easy nursing access for frequent feeds

• Soft, breathable material

• A flexible fit that can accommodate changes in breast size

A few simple essentials can make those little breastfeeding surprises much easier to manage.

Difficulty With Your Baby's Latch

“How do I know if my baby is latching correctly?”

Getting a comfortable latch can take practice, especially during the first few days and weeks.

ACOG recommends bringing your baby toward the breast when their mouth is wide open and checking whether the latch feels comfortable. If the latch isn't right, you can gently break the suction with a clean finger and try again. ACOG — Breastfeeding Your Baby

A few things to try:

1. Find a comfortable position

Support your baby's head, neck and shoulders and bring your baby towards your breast rather than leaning your body forward.

2. Wait for a wide-open mouth

Touch your nipple gently to your baby's lower or upper lip and wait for your baby to open their mouth wide before bringing them to the breast. ACOG — Breastfeeding Your Baby

3. Pay attention to how the latch feels

A good latch should feel comfortable rather than causing ongoing pain. ACOG also notes that signs of a good latch can include the baby's chin touching the breast, rhythmic sucking and audible swallowing. ACOG — Breastfeeding Challenges

4. Try again if it doesn't feel right

If the latch is painful or your baby isn't attaching well, gently break the suction with a clean finger and try again.

If your baby repeatedly slips off the breast, feeding remains painful, or your nipples become damaged, consider asking a healthcare professional or lactation specialist to assess the feeding.

Breastfeeding Doesn't Have to Be Perfect

There can be a lot of pressure on new moms to “get breastfeeding right” from the very beginning. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding counselling and support to help mothers establish and maintain breastfeeding and manage common challenges. WHO — Guideline: Counselling of Women to Improve Breastfeeding Practices

Getting support doesn't mean you're doing something wrong. Sometimes, having someone check your baby's latch, answer a question or simply reassure you can make a big difference.

Comfort for Every Breastfeeding Moment with SHAPEE

While breastfeeding essentials can't solve every challenge, having the right products on hand can make your everyday routine feel more comfortable and manageable.

For moms who breastfeed and pump, SHAPEE Nursing Bra and SHAPEE Breast Pump are designed to support different parts of your everyday breastfeeding journey.

When you're breastfeeding frequently, comfort matters. The SHAPEE Classic Nursing Bra is designed as an everyday nursing bra, offering gentle support while making breastfeeding more convenient. Its seamless design and full-cup fit make it a practical option for everyday wear during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

For moms who also pump, having a breast pump that fits into your daily routine can give you more flexibility. The SHAPEE LacFree Wearable Breast Pump 3.0 is designed for moms who want a more convenient way to express breast milk as part of their breastfeeding journey.

You don't have to make breastfeeding perfect — you just need to find what makes your journey work better for you and your baby.