15/03/2026
Breastfeeding is a natural process, but it's a skill that takes practice — and many mothers face hurdles along the way. The good news? Most common challenges are temporary and improve with the right techniques, support, and sometimes professional help from a lactation consultant (IBCLC), midwife, or doctor.
Here are some of the most common breastfeeding challenges, especially relevant for new moms in Nigeria (where exclusive breastfeeding rates hover around 29–42% due to factors like work demands, family pressures, and perceived low supply), along with practical solutions.
1. Sore, Cracked, or Painful Ni***es
This is one of the top reasons moms consider stopping early. Pain often stems from a shallow latch, where the baby sucks mostly on the ni**le instead of taking in more of the ar**la.
Solutions:
Focus on a deep latch: Baby's mouth should be wide open, lips flanged out (like a fish), chin touching the breast, and more ar**la visible above the mouth than below.
Change positions frequently to reduce pressure on sore spots.
After feeds, express a drop of milk and let it air-dry on the ni**le (natural healing properties).
Use lanolin cream or hydrogel pads for relief; avoid soap on ni**les.
If pain persists or worsens, see a lactation consultant ASAP — it often fixes the root cause quickly.