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When you first start breastfeeding, you may have sore or sensitive nipples. This is very common in the first week of breastfeeding, and is usually because your baby is not latching on properly. If you do have nipple pain, speak to your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist as soon as possible.
What causes sore nipples?
The most frequent cause of sore nipples is an incorrect latch. When a baby latches onto just the nipple, rather than the areola, it leads to friction and pressure, resulting in tenderness, cracking, and even bleeding. A deep, wide latch, where the baby takes in a large portion of the areola, is essential for comfortable and efficient milk transfer. Beyond improper latch, other factors can contribute to sore nipples during breastfeeding. A tongue-tie, a condition where the baby’s tongue movement is restricted, can hinder their ability to latch effectively, leading to nipple soreness and cracking. Additionally, thrush, a candida infection, can develop when nipples are already cracked or damaged, causing further discomfort and pain.
Tips for soothing sore nipples
Here are some tips you can try to help soothe sore nipples from breastfeeding:
- After each feed, let your nipples dry before getting dressed
- Change your breast pads after every feed if you’re using them
- Try not to shorten feeds – this will not ease the pain and may reduce your milk supply
- Avoid using soap, as this can dry out your skin
- Wear cotton, non-underwired bras so air can circulate
- Avoid using nipple shields and breast shells – these will not improve your baby’s attachment to the breast
