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Last Updated - October 22, 2024

Common Breastfeeding Challenges

Breastfeeding can be challenging, particularly as you and your baby learn this new skill in the early weeks.  You can access support from your midwifery or health visiting team and in Torbay both services have specialist staff to support with feeding, so please do reach out for support if you need it.

For information or support please contact us – 

  • Infant Feeding phone: 07500 952216
  • Social media, just search NHS Infant Feeding Torbay
  • Infant Feeding clinic – every Wednesdays at the Beehive, Paignton and Thursday at St. Edmunds, Torquay
  • Baby Feeding Group – Monday’s and Wednesday’s check out the what’s on page for dates and times
  • To see our lactation consultant Health Visitors, contact the advice line to make an appointment. Tel: 0300 333 5352 (Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm) or Email: publichealthnursing.torbay@nhs.net
  • National Breastfeeding helpline  Breastfeeding information and support available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Call 0300 100 0212 or chat via their website 
  • Take a look at our One Feed at a Time campaign

Here are some links to information around common challenges:

Colic is when a baby cries a lot but there’s no obvious cause. It’s a common problem that should get better by around 3 or 4 months of age. But call NHS 111 or see a GP if you’re worried.

Reflux is when a baby brings up milk, or is sick, during or shortly after feeding. It’s very common and usually gets better on its own. Find out how to check if your baby has reflux and more.

Painful nipples or breasts is commonly caused by the baby needing a deeper attachment at the breast.  See the information on attachment and positioning but for other possible causes please see the following information.

Pain: if breastfeeding hurts – The Breastfeeding Network

Tongue-tie is where the piece of skin connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is shorter or tighter than usual. It’s most common in babies. It may not cause any problems, but if it does treatment is available. For NHS information, click on the find out more button.

If you are worried about your baby, please talk to your midwife or health visitor.

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