Some women experience nipple tenderness when breastfeeding, which usually disappears after one to two weeks. However, very sore, painful nipples are not normal. The most likely cause of sore nipples is improperly latching the baby to your breast.
Holding your baby
- Sit or lie in a comfortable position using pillows to support your arms or your body as needed.
- Lean back and position your baby so that they are facing you. Your baby’s head should not be turned. Sitting in a semi-reclined position may be more comfortable.
- Place your baby’s tummy on your body and allow gravity to bring your baby close.
- Support your breast if needed. In a semi-reclined position, you may find holding your breast is not necessary.
- Hold your baby close to prevent pulling of the breast. Break from the suction with your finger before removing your baby from your breast.
- Relax and hold your baby with as much skin-to-skin contact as possible.
Baby’s latch
- Position your baby with their nose to your nipple so they have to reach up slightly to latch.
- Baby’s mouth should be “yawn wide” with as much of the nipple area in their mouth as possible.
- Baby’s chin should press firmly into your breast.
Treatment and prevention
- Begin each feeding on the breast that is the least sore.
- Feed your baby as soon as they show signs of hunger, such as sucking on hands, smacking lips or yawning. Crying is a late sign of hunger!
- Hold your baby in different positions. This changes the direction of the pressure on your nipple.
- After each feeding, put a small amount of breast milk on your nipples and allow it to dry. Your breast milk will form a protective shield on your nipples and helps them heal.
- Purified lanolin may be applied to the nipple to promote healing. This does not need to be washed off before your baby nurses. Do not use soaps or lotions on your breasts.
- Make sure your bra fits properly. Change breast pads as they become damp.
- If necessary, hand express or pump to soften the breasts and relieve fullness.
- Most important: Try different positions and find what is most comfortable for you. One position does not fit all scenarios! Get help if you are unsure or are experiencing pain.
Get help from your doctor or lactation consultant if you have:
- Redness, pain or soreness that does not go away.
- A burning or itching sensation in your nipples during or after feedings.
- Any drainage from a damaged area.
- Signs of infection, such as weakness, headache, nausea, soreness, chills or fever higher than 101 degrees.