Common Complications of Breastfeeding and Lactation: An Overview for Clinicians

Stephanie M Radke1

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.

Lactation and breastfeeding are core components of reproductive health care and obstetrical providers should be familiar with common complications that may arise in lactating individuals. While many breastfeeding challenges are best addressed by a lactation consultant, there are conditions that fall out of their scope and require care from a clinician. The objective of this chapter is to review common complications of breastfeeding and lactation including inflammatory conditions, disorders of lactogenesis, dermatologic conditions, and persistent pain with lactation.

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