Tag: Medical Issues

newborn baby cryingThis tag “medical issues while breastfeeding” is for categorizing discussions and resources related to health conditions in either the nursing parent or the infant that can impact the breastfeeding journey. It serves as a central hub for information and peer support when medical complexities arise, from common infections to chronic illnesses.

Medical issues while breastfeeding disclaimer:

Content under this tag is for informational and support purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider (such as your doctor, a paediatrician, or an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant – IBCLC) for diagnosis and treatment.

We cover a broad range of topics where health and breastfeeding intersect.

For the Breastfeeding Parent:

Breast and Nipple Conditions: Information and support for managing painful issues like:

  • Mastitis: Inflammation or infection of the breast tissue.
  • Thrush (Candidiasis): A fungal infection affecting the nipples and/or the baby’s mouth.
  • Plugged Ducts & Milk Blebs: Blockages in the milk ducts.
  • Nipple Vasospasm (Raynaud’s Phenomenon): Blanching and pain in the nipple due to restricted blood flow.
  • Abscesses: A collection of pus that can form as a complication of mastitis.
  • Hormonal and Systemic Conditions: Discussions on how conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT) can affect milk supply.
  • Medications & Treatments: Questions and shared experiences about the safety and effects of taking medications (e.g., antidepressants, antibiotics, pain relievers) while nursing.
  • Mental Health: Support for navigating challenges like Postpartum Depression (PPD), anxiety, and Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER).
  • Chronic Illness: Managing pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders during lactation.

For the Breastfed Infant:

  • Anatomical Issues: Challenges related to the baby’s physical ability to breastfeed effectively, including tongue-tie, lip-tie, and high palate.
  • Allergies and Intolerances: Identifying and managing symptoms of conditions like Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) and other food sensitivities transmitted through breast milk.
  • Common Infant Conditions: Navigating breastfeeding with a baby experiencing jaundice, reflux (GERD), or slow weight gain.
  • Illness: Advice and support for nursing a baby who is sick with a cold, fever, or other infections.

This tag helps individuals connect with others who have faced similar medical challenges, share practical solutions, and find resources to continue their breastfeeding journey safely and confidently.

  • Why Obesity Can Affect Breastfeeding and What You Can Do About It

    Why Obesity Can Affect Breastfeeding and What You Can Do About It

    Women dealing with excess weight were found to regularly have more difficulties with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding provides unmatched health benefits for babies and mothers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. This is primarily because breast milk contains antibodies that help protect…

  • Mastitis Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

    Mastitis Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

    Continue to breastfeed. Breastfeeding will help to clear the infection and relieve some breast soreness. Apply warm compresses to the breast, or take a warm shower before breastfeeding or expressing Mastitis is a breast infection in the breast tissue. Breast infections are caused mainly by bacteria found on normal skin. The bacteria usually enter through cracked…

  • Cleft Lip and Palate

    Cleft Lip and Palate

    The Obturator can help the baby suck stronger and provides firm pressure on the breast. The mother should request that the Obturator be made of a smooth surface, as not to hurt her while breastfeeding Cleft lip and Cleft palates are among the most common birth defects. While the fetus is developing in the mother’s…

  • Breastfeeding and Diabetes – Can You Still Breastfeed?

    Breastfeeding and Diabetes – Can You Still Breastfeed?

    Yes, a diabetic mother can continue to breastfeed her baby. Whether you have type 1, 2 or gestational diabetes, you can and should continue to breastfeed. Diabetic mothers are advised to breastfeed their babies exclusively for 6 months or longer Breastfeeding and Diabetes The Advantages of Continued Nursing Should you be breastfeeding while diabetic? What…

  • Metformin and Breastfeeding

    Metformin and Breastfeeding

    Metformin and Other AntidiabeticMedicines: Are They Safe to Use WhenBreastfeeding? Approximately 15 million women, or one in every nine women, in the United States have diabetes – and health outcomes for female sufferers tend to be worse than they are for men. For instance, women have a four times higher risk of developing heart disease…

  • Where to Turn to for Help With Breastfeeding

    Where to Turn to for Help With Breastfeeding

    Breastfeeding Help and Support Being a new parent can sometimes be an isolating experience when you’re at home with a new baby. If you’re experiencing breastfeeding problems, you might feel like there’s no one you can turn to for help. You might even believe that people will judge you for not adapting to breastfeeding naturally. …

  • Postpartum Depression and Breastfeeding

    Postpartum Depression and Breastfeeding

    80% of mothers go through some anxiety and depression after pregnancy. Most mothers don’t realize that they are depressed. What is Postpartum Depression? Even under ideal circumstances, giving birth to and looking after a new life is challenging. Some tears and emotional days are expected following the birth of a new baby, but when you…

  • Self-Care Tips for Postpartum Wellness

    Self-Care Tips for Postpartum Wellness

    During the postpartum period, we need to learn how to balance our newborn’s needs with our own The first twelve weeks after your baby’s arrival are incredibly transformative. It’s a time of discovery, filled with learning about your new role as a parent and understanding your baby’s needs. This period also allows you to focus…

  • Postpartum Recovery While Breastfeeding

    Postpartum Recovery While Breastfeeding

    You’re nurturing a new life, but it’s equally vital to nurture yourself. This guide offers practical tips to support your healing, make your breastfeeding experience more comfortable, and ensure you can fully embrace this precious, fleeting time with your little one. Welcome to the incredible journey of motherhood! While the immense joy of holding your…

  • I Accidentally Took Pepto Bismol While Breastfeeding

    I Accidentally Took Pepto Bismol While Breastfeeding

    Worried because you took Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding? Don’t panic—one accidental dose is very unlikely to harm your baby. Still, Pepto isn’t recommended for nursing moms since it contains salicylates (similar to aspirin) that can pass into breast milk. Here’s What You Need to Know First off—don’t panic. Lots of moms have been in your shoes,…