These are the most common breast conditions and complications related to—and often impacting—breastfeeding. Check out our articles detailing what causes and relieves them, how they can impact you, and when to get help.

Though uncommon, it’s possible that in the first days following delivery, your milk volume may not reach the necessary amount to feed your child. Understandably, this can be upsetting, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t be able to breastfeed. There may be an underlying cause that can be remedied. <a href="https://hello.onewillow.com/article/blt24f004e412d8d6ac" target="_self">Learn more.</a>

Delayed milk transition

Breast engorgement is a common condition whereby the breasts become swollen, tight, and sometimes warm to the touch. You can usually get relief by breastfeeding your baby, or by pumping or hand-expressing your milk. <a href="https://hello.onewillow.com/article/blt0611d7df6fcfef70" target="_self">Learn more.</a>

Engorgement

Plugged ducts are one of the more common side effects of breastfeeding, with 20 percent of those who breastfeed estimated to get them at some point. Although these small, firm lumps in your breast can cause swelling and discomfort, they are usually nothing to worry about. <a href="https://hello.onewillow.com/article/blt31be56a727f0610d" target="_self">Learn more.</a>

Plugged (or clogged) ducts

You can expect your breasts to become swollen, tender, and even engorged, especially when you first begin breastfeeding your baby. But be on the lookout for redness, warmth, or flu-like symptoms, which may signal a more serious condition called mastitis. <a href="https://hello.onewillow.com/article/blt9aa0e823381538c2" target="_self">Learn more.</a>

Mastitis

Sore nipples are so common at the start of breastfeeding that you can almost expect some level of discomfort. That said, pain can be a sign of other conditions, and it can worsen if not addressed. So pay attention to your symptoms, and reach out to your provider if the pain doesn’t quickly resolve. <a href="https://hello.onewillow.com/article/bltf6c7fc32a551803e" target="_self">Learn more.</a>

Sore nipples

A bleb is basically a blister that can crop up when your milk gets backed up behind a blocked milk duct opening. You might notice a small white or yellow spot resembling a whitehead at or near the very tip of your nipple. <a href="https://hello.onewillow.com/article/bltff63733fc96e4ba6" target="_self">Learn more. </a>

Milk blister (bleb)

Until starting your breastfeeding journey, you may have heard of only one type of yeast infection—the vaginal kind. This type is commonly passed between a breastfeeding parent and baby. <a href="https://hello.onewillow.com/article/bltd518cdca007bdfc8" target="_self">Learn more.</a>

Thrush

As your breasts and nipples adjust to the stimulation and pressure of a breast pump, you may need to make adjustments to address occasional discomfort. Persistent pain, however, may be a sign that something other than your flange size or pumping strength is off. <a href="https://hello.onewillow.com/article/bltb1742142591cc134" target="_self">Learn more.</a>

Painful pumping

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8 common breast conditions tied to breastfeeding