Breastfeeding Support for New Mums

Breastfeeding can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also come with challenges. Many new mums experience difficulties such as painful or cracked nipples, blocked ducts, breast lumps, or concerns about their baby’s feeding. You are not alone, and early support can make a huge difference.

At our clinic, we help mums and babies with hands-on support, guidance, and safe therapies to make breastfeeding easier and more comfortable.

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How We Help New Mums and Babies

Support for Babies

• Assessment of cranial and sacral movement patterns: Evaluating cranial and spinal movement that may have been affected during birth or due to intrauterine constraints. Restrictions in these areas can contribute to latch difficulties and neck stiffness.
• Assessment of feeding function: Evaluating tongue tie, suck patterns, cranial bone alignment, and jaw movement to improve milk transfer and support effective feeding.
• Support for an effective latch: Optimising baby positioning to reduce discomfort for both baby and mum, and to help prevent blocked ducts.

Support for Mums

• Therapeutic ultrasound
  • Lumps or bumps caused by blocked ducts
• Laser therapy
  • Broken, cracked, or painful nipples to aid healing of nipple damage and support recovery.
• Guidance and advice on preventing future issues, including mastitis or repeated duct blockages.

???? Early intervention is key — treating problems promptly helps make breastfeeding safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for both mum and baby.

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Common Breastfeeding Issues

1. Blocked Duct

A blocked duct occurs when a milk duct is clogged, reducing milk flow.

Symptoms:

• Painful lump(s) in the breast

• Localized swelling or tenderness

• Mild redness and warmth

• Milk may flow less efficiently

⚠️ If untreated, a blocked duct can lead to mastitis.

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2. Mastitis

Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue, often caused by bacteria entering a blocked duct.

Symptoms:

• Painful, red, swollen, and warm area on the breast

• Fever and chills

• Fatigue or body aches

• Milk may appear thick or discolored

When to seek medical help:

• Fever ≥ 101°F (38.3°C) or chills

• Worsening symptoms or no improvement within 24–48 hours

• Severe pain, large red area, or abscess formation

???? Tip: Mastitis can develop suddenly. Early recognition and continued emptying of the breast are key to preventing complications.

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3. Breast Abscess

A breast abscess is a pocket of pus in the breast tissue, usually resulting from untreated mastitis. It often requires drainage and antibiotics.

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Common Causes of Blocked Ducts and Mastitis

• Pressure on the breast (seatbelts, bumping, sleeping on the breast, firm massage)

• Rushing feeds or not emptying the breast fully

• Oversupply of milk

• Incorrect latch or positioning

• Baby’s tongue tie or poor suck

• Combination feeding (breast + bottle)

• Pumping issues (wrong flange size, over-pumping)

• Tight clothing or carrying heavy bags

• Stress and fatigue

During busy seasons like winter or holidays, blocked ducts and mastitis are more common, sometimes called “Christmastitis.”

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Therapeutic Ultrasound and Laser Therapy

Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve tissue function.

How it works:

• A handheld device emits sound waves that penetrate the breast tissue.

• Thermal effects: Produce gentle heat, increasing blood flow, relaxing muscles, and reducing stiffness.

• Non-thermal effects: Stimulate cell activity and fluid movement to support tissue repair.

Applications for breastfeeding mums:

• Relieve pain and speed recovery for nipple damage

• Reduce lumps caused by blocked ducts

• Support healing alongside other treatments, including antibiotics if needed

Safety: Not suitable for areas with cancer, infection, poorly healing fractures, eyes, heart, or pregnant uterus. Your practitioner will ensure it’s safe for you.

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At-Home Tips to Prevent Blockages and Mastitis

• Feed on demand and empty breasts regularly

• Avoid pressure on the breasts

• Ensure a good latch

• Alternate feeding positions to target different ducts

• Rest and manage stress and fatigue

• Avoid overly tight clothing or bras

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Remember

Early recognition and support are the best ways to prevent small problems from turning into painful complications. We’re here to help both mum and baby thrive through breastfeeding, with professional care, therapeutic treatments, and reassurance every step of the way.