Is Breast Engorgement Affecting Your Latch?

You've likely heard countless times about the importance of a proper latch. Indeed, it's often touted as the cornerstone of breastfeeding success, and for good reason. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it so crucial?

Understanding the Significance of a Proper Latch

When your little one latches onto your breast effectively, it's not just about fulfilling their hunger—it's about establishing a strong and efficient breastfeeding relationship. 

A proper latch ensures that your baby is able to effectively extract milk, stimulating your milk production and promoting optimal growth and development. Moreover, a good latch can help prevent discomfort and nipple pain, fostering a more positive breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby.

The Role of Engorgement in Latching Challenges

However, achieving a proper latch isn't always a straightforward endeavor, particularly when engorgement enters the picture. Engorgement occurs when your breasts become overly full and swollen with milk, making it challenging for your baby to latch effectively. This can lead to frustration for both you and your little one, potentially undermining your breastfeeding efforts.

We recently met with the wonderfully informative Naiomi Catron, IBCLC and founder of MilkDiva in Austin, TX. With her background as an award-winning Labor & Delivery Nurse and Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Naiomi navigates the certainties and uncertainties of lactation, providing expert guidance. 

When speaking about latch issues, she shared about how your little one actually latches on with their tongue, so if there is too much milk and any accompanying inflammation from engorgement, it causes the nipple to flatten out and the surrounding tissue gets hard. It’s simply impossible for your little one to get that good, solid latch. Not to mention, it’s so painful for you! 

Navigating Engorgement with CaboCréme

What can help the most, she says, is to gently massage the breast in hand movements towards the underarm, away from the nipple. Not too firm, though. One of our favorite tips from our time with Naiomi was to not apply any more pressure than you would to pet a cat. Naiomi recommended against using mechanical massagers because the manual massage is the best way to move the extra fluid into the lymphatic system. 

Enter CaboCréme—a trusted ally in your breastfeeding journey. Specifically formulated to provide relief from engorgement with concentrated cabbage leaf extract, CaboCréme offers a gentle and effective solution to help you overcome this hurdle.

By applying CaboCréme to your breasts when engorgement strikes, you can alleviate discomfort and swelling within 15-20 minutes, making it easier for your baby to latch onto your breast and feed comfortably. Try putting it in the refrigerator for an extra calm and cooling sensation. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, our cabbage extract cream is the perfect solution for combating latch issues due to engorgement in the early phases of breastfeeding. 

Check out our full discussion with Naiomi and be sure to visit her virtual lactation consultation resources if you need more support. She has assembled an incredible team. 

Achieving Breastfeeding Success with CaboCréme

By incorporating CaboCréme into your breastfeeding routine, you're not just addressing engorgement—you're laying the foundation for breastfeeding success. 

With the discomfort of engorgement alleviated, you and your baby can focus on perfecting the latch and enjoying the bonding experience that breastfeeding offers. Rest assured that using CaboCréme for early engorgement a couple of times a day will not decrease your milk supply. 

As your baby feeds more effectively, you'll likely notice an increase in your milk supply, further enhancing the breastfeeding journey for both of you.

Embracing Support and Guidance

While CaboCréme can offer invaluable relief from engorgement, it's essential to remember that breastfeeding is a journey best traveled with support and guidance. Don't hesitate to reach out to lactation consultants, healthcare professionals, or fellow breastfeeding mothers for assistance and encouragement along the way. 

Embrace the support available to you, and trust in your ability to nurture and nourish your little one through the power of breastfeeding. With CaboCréme by your side, you're well-equipped to achieve breastfeeding success and savor every precious moment of this incredible journey.

Let’s be honest, breastfeeding can be confusing and challenging. Especially when latching struggles decide to make an appearance. But there is no need to worry, you’re not alone. Here are some tips and tricks to help smooth your breastfeeding journey:

Latch-education 101: Understanding latching 

Latching is the key to successful breastfeeding. A proper latch ensures that your baby gets the nourishment they need while also preventing discomfort for you. When done right, breastfeeding becomes a comfortable and bonding experience for both of you.

Common Latching Challenges and Solutions:

• Uncomfortable Latch: If breastfeeding hurts, your baby might not be latched properly. Check if their mouth covers a good portion of your areola. Their lips should be turned out, not tucked in. If the latch feels uncomfortable, gently insert a clean finger into the corner of their mouth to break the suction and try again.
• Shallow Latch: A shallow latch can lead to sore nipples and poor milk transfer. Encourage your baby to open wide by softly touching their lips with your nipple. As they open, guide them onto the breast, making sure their chin touches first followed by their lips.
• Fussy Baby: A fussy baby might signal a latching problem. Settle your baby in a comfortable position and ensure a calm environment. Skin-to-skin contact before feeding can help relax both of you.
• Engorged Breasts: Engorgement can make latching difficult for both you and your baby. Gently massage your breasts before nursing and use warm compresses to encourage letdown. Hand express a little milk to soften the areola if it's too firm for your baby to latch onto. CaboCréme applied to engorged breasts, will soften them so your baby can latch. 
• Inverted or Flat Nipples: If you have inverted or flat nipples, using a breast pump for a few minutes before nursing can help draw out the nipple. Additionally, try using nipple shields or consult a lactation consultant for guidance.

Tips for Successful Latching:

• Positioning Matters: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find the most comfortable one for you and your baby. Common positions include the cradle hold, football hold, and side-lying position.
• Create a Calm Space:  Find a quiet and comfortable space for breastfeeding. Reducing distractions and tension can make latching easier for both of you.
• Nipple Care: Keep your nipples clean and dry. Applying a small amount of breast milk after feeding can help with healing. Consider one of the nipple balm produtcs.
• Consult a Professional: If latching difficulties persist, consider consulting a lactation consultant. They can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your situation.

Remember, each baby and mother are unique. Be patient with yourself and your little one as you navigate the world of latching. With time, persistence, and support, you can overcome these challenges and enjoy a successful and fulfilling breastfeeding experience.