Every woman understands that breastfeeding is the best way to feed a baby, but things can be tricky, especially when you begin feeding your first baby. You may also have to deal with certain side effects, like plugged ducts, sore nipples, and so on. On the other hand, your baby may also have to deal with certain issues, such as nursing blister on lip.

Is It Normal?

Yes, it is quite common for babies to have nursing blisters. Both bottle-fed and breastfed babies can develop these blisters. These blisters appear on the upper lip of your baby and are usually harmless.

Nursing blister on baby lip is usually the outcome of vigorous sucking. Some babies have these blisters at the time of birth, which is usually because they have been sucking their thumb in the womb. Newborns can repeat movement of sucking for hours a day, so it is natural to develop those calluses or blisters on the upper lip. Sometimes, these blisters go away after each feeding but they can persist for several weeks or even months.

Keep in mind that you should never stop feeding your baby if they have developed their first nursing blisters. In fact, there is no need to see your baby's pediatrician, if of course you are sure of what has caused it in the first place. These blisters are usually painless and go away on their own, as your baby becomes accustomed to the sucking movements.

When Should You Worry?

As mentioned already, a nursing blister on baby lip usually requires no medical attention. However, you may want to talk to your doctor in case you are not sure about the underlying cause. It could be a mouth problem and could become infected. If it is an infection like oral thrush, it could be transferred to your nipple. It is important to have any infections treated as soon as possible.

Other Breastfeeding Issues You Must Know

Just like a nursing blister on baby lip, there could be many other issues you may have to deal with while breastfeeding. Here is more about those issues.

1. Trouble Making Your Baby to Latch

Many women have to deal with this issue, but skin-to-skin is the best thing to rectify the problem. You should wear nothing from the waist up and also take off your baby's clothes except for the diaper. Get in a semi-reclining position and hold your baby on your chest. Wait until your baby is ready. A non-latching baby scoots down to the breast when he/she is ready. Be sure to provide your baby with expressed milk until they learn to latch on to the breast.

2. Baby Falling Asleep at the Breast

It is another common issue and makes many women feel concerned about the health of their baby. Understand that your baby is less likely to sleep when there is enough milk, and you can ensure it by trying breast compressions. You have to squeeze your breast gently using your thumb and finger to start the flow of milk – your baby will start sucking and swallowing at the same time. You may also consider stroking your baby under the chin to encourage sucking.

3. Latching on Causes Pain

It is a common problem, especially for new mothers who have tender breasts. While breastfeeding may prove a bit uncomfortable, it should not be painful. Ensure that your baby gets mouthful of breast when he/she starts – make sure his/her head is tipped back with chin pressed lightly into your breast. Keeping your hand behind your baby's head may prevent a good latch and cause some discomfort.

4. Dealing with a Constantly Nursing Baby

Just like nursing blister on baby lip, this should not be anything serious because babies have small stomachs that need to be filled up frequently. You should be feeding them as often as they want to help them grow in a healthy way. You really do not need to worry about your baby eating frequently in case they are having no less than 2 poopy diapers a day and are gaining well. You may want to talk to your doctor though in case your baby is not gaining well.

5. Baby Seems Fussy at the Breast

It is quite common for babies to be fussy at the breast and always gulp and choke. It happens when the flow of milk from your breast is rather forceful. If that is the case with you, you may notice your baby have frothy green poops. Switching sides every couple of minutes may help normalize the flow. You may also consider trying 'blocked feeding', which involves using the same breast for feeding for a set time. This increases the amount of milk in your other breast, which signals the breast to reduce the production of milk.

6. Baby Spitting Up after Feeding

It is quite natural for babies to spit up sometimes. If your baby spits up a lot, it could be because they are already getting a lot of milk. Spitting up is your baby's way to get rid of excess milk. What you should pay attention to is that your baby is gaining weight and does not seem distressed. It usually means you have nothing to worry about even when your baby spits up often. Talk to your doctor if your baby spits up with force and is not gaining weight.

7. Dealing with a Biting Baby

Just like a nursing blister on baby lip, it is common for some babies to test their gums and even teeth on your breast. Simply pulling your baby close to your breast will make them leave the nipple to breathe. Do not try to pull them back or it will become even more painful for you.