Breastfeeding is a beautiful experience for both mother and baby. However, sore nipples can be a common and painful issue many nursing mothers face. Sore nipples can make breastfeeding a challenging and uncomfortable experience, which can lead to frustration and stress for both mother and baby.
Sore nipples during breastfeeding happen to most women and is very common during the early stages of breastfeeding but go away after some time. More often, sore nipples are caused by your baby not being correctly positioned or attached to the breast. However, there are other reasons that you should check for if you still feel pain even after properly attaching your child.
While there are many causes of sore nipples, such as ovulation, pregnancy, menopause, and others, this article discusses sore nipples during your early stages of breastfeeding. So, let’s dive in and learn more about sore nipples during breastfeeding!
Causes of Sore Nipples During Breastfeeding.
Some women experience pain when their nipples are adjusting to a new nursing routine. However, the discomfort goes away when a good feeding routine is established. Other causes of sore nipples are;
1. Incorrect Latch
Latching describes how your baby attaches to your breast during feeding. A good latch causes a good flow of milk and reduces discomfort. An incorrect latch can cause compression and pulling of the nipple leading to pain.
2. Tongue – tie
A tongue tie is a condition where the baby’s tongue is attached to the bottom of the mouth. This makes it difficult for the baby to latch correctly. The baby can chew or clamp down on the nipple leading to pain and soreness.
3. Pumping
The suction from the breast pump can cause friction and irritation on the nipples, leading to soreness and discomfort. Additionally, improper positioning of the breast shields or using a breast pump with an incorrect suction level can also cause sore nipples.
4. Engorgement
Breast engorgement is when the breast swells, becomes tight and size increases. When the breasts are engorged, the nipples can become stretched and sore, making breastfeeding painful.
5. Thrush
Thrush is a fungal infection that affects the baby’s mouth and the mother’s nipple, causing discomfort and pain during breastfeeding. You can notice the infection in the baby by checking symptoms like yellowish patches in the lips and mouth or cracked skin at the corner of the mouth. Thrush infection symptoms in the mother include cracked nipples or itchy, burning nipples.
6. Mastitis
Mastitis is a breast tissue inflammation that can lead to a bacterial infection. This condition can cause redness, swelling, and pain in the breast, as well as fever and flu-like symptoms.
7. Too-tight bras
When too-tight bras are worn during the early stages of breastfeeding, it may put pressure on your nipple and irritate it.
8. Inverted or Flat Nipple
Flat nipples are nipples that do not protrude from the breast tissue, while inverted nipples are nipples that are pulled inward instead of pointing outward. Both of these conditions can make it challenging for the baby to latch onto the nipple, which can cause pain and soreness for the mother.
Prevention of Sore Nipples during Breastfeeding
Understanding what causes sore nipples can help you prevent it early enough. Here are some ways to prevent sore nipples during breastfeeding.
- Ensure proper latching: Proper latching is essential for preventing sore nipples. Make sure the baby is latching onto the breast properly, with their mouth covering the nipple and areola.
- Try different positions: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find the one that is most comfortable for both you and your baby.
- Feed the baby as often as you can to reduce the risk of breast engorgement.
- Use a nipple shield: If you have flat or inverted nipples, using a nipple shield can help the baby latch onto the nipple more easily and prevent soreness.
- Avoid using soap on the nipples: Soap can dry out the skin and irritate it. It’s best to avoid using soap on the nipples and instead clean them with water.
- Ensure proper breast support: Wearing a well-fitted bra can help prevent sore nipples by providing proper breast support and reducing friction.
- Use lanolin cream: Applying lanolin cream to the nipples after breastfeeding can help soothe and protect sore nipples. Choose a lanolin cream that is safe for both mother and child.
- Take breaks between feedings: Taking breaks between feedings can help prevent engorgement, which can exacerbate sore nipples.
- If the milk is leaking, use bra pads and change them often.
- During pumping, ensure that the breast pump is correctly adjusted to prevent sore nipples. Using the correct breast shield size and adjusting the suction level can help prevent friction and irritation on the nipples. It’s also important to take breaks during pumping sessions to allow the nipples to rest and heal if soreness develops.
- Overall, maintain utmost hygiene during breastfeeding. Always clean the breast before nursing.
Remedies for Sore Nipples During Breastfeeding
There are some medically proven ways you can adapt to help you reduce breast pain during breastfeeding.
- Breast milk: Applying a few drops of breast milk on the sore nipples can help soothe the pain and promote healing. Breast milk has antibacterial properties that can help prevent infection.
- Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress to the breasts before and after nursing can help reduce soreness and promote blood flow to the area, aiding in the healing process. Ensure you do not apply heat directly on the skin.
- Cold compresses: Applying a cold compress to the breasts after nursing can help reduce inflammation and soothe sore nipples.
- Coconut oil: Applying coconut oil to the sore nipples can help moisturize the skin and reduce friction, leading to reduced pain and discomfort.
- Chamomile tea: Soaking a cotton ball in chamomile tea and applying it to the nipples can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Aloe vera gel: Applying aloe vera gel to the sore nipples can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Aloe vera has moisturizing and antibacterial properties that can soothe and protect the skin.
Is it Right to Breastfeed with Sore Nipples?
Breastfeeding with sore nipples can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience. While it may be tempting to take a break from breastfeeding until the soreness subsides, it is generally recommended that nursing mothers continue to breastfeed as much as possible.
Continuing to breastfeed can help maintain milk supply and prevent engorgement, which can exacerbate the pain and discomfort of sore nipples. Additionally, breastfeeding can help promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
However, it is essential to take steps to minimize pain and discomfort during breastfeeding. This can include ensuring proper latching and positioning, using a nipple shield or breast pads to protect sore nipples, and taking pain relief medication if necessary.
If the soreness persists or worsens despite taking measures to alleviate it, nursing mothers should seek guidance and support from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider. They can provide further advice on how to manage the pain and prevent further damage to the nipples.
Complications of Sore Nipples During Breastfeeding
If not taken care of, sore nipples can result in some complications. It is advisable to seek help from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider if sore nipples exceed. They can advise on how to manage the pain and prevent more complications. Some of the complications include;
- Infection: Sore nipples can become infected, leading to conditions such as mastitis or thrush.
- Decreased milk supply: Sore nipples can cause nursing mothers to avoid breastfeeding or reduce the frequency of feedings, leading to decreased milk supply.
- Discomfort: Sore nipples can cause significant discomfort and pain, making it difficult to enjoy the breastfeeding experience.
- Engorgement: Sore nipples can lead to engorgement, where the breasts become overly full and painful.
- Nipple damage: If soreness persists, it can lead to nipple damage, such as cracks or bleeding, which can further exacerbate the pain and discomfort.
- Early weaning: If soreness becomes severe, nursing mothers may choose to wean their baby early, leading to a premature end to the breastfeeding experience.
Impact of Sore Nipples on Breastfeeding Relationship
Sore nipples can adversely affect the breastfeeding relationship between the mother and baby. Some potential impacts include;
- Negative emotions: Soreness and pain can cause negative emotions, such as frustration, anxiety, and guilt, making it difficult for a mother to enjoy the breastfeeding experience.
- Disrupted sleep: Sore nipples can lead to disrupted sleep, making it difficult for both the mother and baby to get adequate rest.
- Impact on bonding: Soreness and discomfort can make it challenging for a mother to bond with her baby during breastfeeding.
When to Seek Medical Help
While sore nipples are common during breastfeeding, there are times when it is important to seek medical help. Seeking medical help can help in preventing further complications and ensure a successful breastfeeding experience.
- Severe or persistent pain: If the pain persists or becomes severe, despite taking measures to alleviate it, it’s essential to seek medical help.
- Cracked or bleeding nipples: If the soreness has led to cracks or bleeding on the nipples, it’s important to seek medical help to prevent infection.
- Signs of infection: If there are signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus, it’s essential to seek medical help as soon as possible.
- Fever: If experiencing a fever, it could be a sign of infection and requires prompt medical attention.
- Difficulty breastfeeding: If experiencing difficulty breastfeeding due to soreness, it’s essential to seek medical help to ensure that the baby is getting adequate nutrition.
- Mastitis: If experiencing symptoms of mastitis, such as a red, swollen breast, fever, or flu-like symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical help.
Myths Related to Sore Nipples and the Truth.
Here are some myths people say about sore nipples during breastfeeding and what is true.
“Sore nipples are normal and expected during breastfeeding.” While some initial tenderness or discomfort may be common, sore nipples are not normal and can indicate an issue with latching, positioning, or other factors.
“Breastfeeding is supposed to hurt.” Breastfeeding should not be a painful experience. While some discomfort may be common initially, it should not be excruciating or persistent.
“Sore nipples mean you’re not producing enough milk.” Sore nipples do not necessarily indicate a lack of milk supply. Rather, they may indicate an issue with positioning, latch, or other factors.
“Using nipple shields can prevent sore nipples.” While nipple shields can be helpful in some cases, they may also cause further issues if not used properly. Additionally, they may interfere with milk transfer and decrease milk supply.
“Sore nipples mean you should stop breastfeeding.” In most cases, sore nipples can be addressed with proper support and intervention. Stopping breastfeeding is not typically necessary unless there is a severe underlying issue that cannot be resolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to have sore nipples while breastfeeding?
Yes, sore nipples are a common occurrence during breastfeeding, especially in the early stages. However, if the pain persists or becomes severe, it’s essential to seek medical help.
Can pumping cause sore nipples?
Yes, pumping can cause sore nipples. The suction from the breast pump can cause friction and irritation on the nipples, leading to soreness and discomfort.
How long does it take for sore nipples to heal?
The healing time for sore nipples can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. With proper treatment and management, sore nipples can heal within a few days to a week. However, in some cases, it may take longer for complete healing.
Can pumping prevent sore nipples?
Pumping can sometimes prevent sore nipples by allowing a mother to control the suction strength and duration of feeding. It can also help prevent overstimulation of the nipples, which can lead to soreness. Pumping can help reduce breast engorgement which is among the cause of sore nipples. However, improper use of a breast pump can also lead to sore nipples. It’s important to ensure proper fit and positioning of the pump and avoid using a pump that is too strong for the individual’s needs.
Additionally, it’s important to note that exclusively pumping may not provide the same benefits as direct breastfeedings, such as optimal milk transfer and releasing hormones that promote milk production and bonding.
Can I breastfeed after applying Lanolin Cream?
Yes, you can breastfeed after applying lanolin cream. Lanolin cream is safe for both the mother and baby and does not need to be removed before breastfeeding. Applying lanolin cream after each nursing session can help soothe and protect the nipples, reducing the risk of soreness and cracking. However, it’s important to ensure proper cleaning of the breast before nursing to prevent any potential ingestion of the cream by the baby.