Mothers' experiences of pain during breastfeeding in the early postnatal period: A short report in a Swedish context

Objectives The objective was to investigate the prevalence of mothers who experienced pain during breastfeeding in the early postnatal period and to describe associated factors. Methods Medical records of 987 mothers and their babies were scrutinized. Chi-square Test, McNemar's test, and relative risk with a 95% confidence interval were applied for analysis. Results During the in-hospital postnatal stay, 19.5% mothers experienced pain during breastfeeding. At discharge, the rate was 8.8% (rho < .001) and at the follow-up hospital visit 2 to 3 days after birth 17.5% (rho = .104). Pain when breastfeeding was associated with primiparity (RR 2.02; 95% CI 1.53-2.66), epidural block during labor (RR 1.50; 95% CI 1.17-1.94), cracked nipples (RR 5.94; 95% CI 4.84-7.27), the use of a nipple shield (RR 6.34; 95% CI 5.43-7.41), supplementary feeding (RR 2.19; 95% CI 1.71-2.80), and longer hospital stay (RR 1.88; 95% CI 1.46-2.42). Conclusions During the early postnatal period, Swedish mothers commonly experienced pain during breastfeeding. Although the rate dropped at discharge, it rose again by the time mothers returned for their follow-up visit. The rebound rate could be explained by breast engorgement, a baby's shallow latch or the effect of an epidural block. Midwives and nurses assisting women during intrapartum and postpartum care must be aware of factors associated with pain during early breastfeeding.