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Breastfeeding Challenges

Sore Nipples

Many new mothers find that their nipples are tender during the first few days and/or weeks of breastfeeding. This usually occurs if your baby is not positioned correctly and/or cannot properly latch on to your breasts. Once your baby latches on properly and begins sucking, the discomfort usually dissipates within a few seconds. For some, however, soreness of the nipples may last for one to two weeks. The following tips may help prevent and/or treat symptoms. Note—Blisters, cracking, bleeding and/or pain that continues during or in between feedings is not normal. Check with your doctor or a lactation consultant if you have any of these problems.

Prevention of Sore Nipples

Vary nursing positions the first week until you find one that is most comfortable for you and your baby.
Breastfeed frequently (eight to 12 feedings per 24 hours) during the first few weeks. If your baby does not nurse frequently enough, and is therefore very hungry, he or she may nurse vigorously, causing tender nipples.
Release the suction before you remove your baby from your breast by placing a clean finger in the side of your baby's mouth between his or her jaws. Don't take the baby away until you feel the suction break.
After nursing your baby, express a little breast milk and massage it into your nipples and areolae (the dark area around the nipples). Breast milk has healing properties.
Never use soap, alcohol or creams on your breasts or nipples. Water is all that is needed to clean your breasts when you shower or bathe.

Sore Nipple Management

Use deep breathing, soft music or other relaxation techniques, or express a little milk, to stimulate let-down (milk ejection reflex).
Nurse on the least sore side first.
Limit non-nutritive nursing (less intense sucking with minimal swallowing) on the sore nipple.
Massage your breasts while nursing to help stimulate let-down.
Use non-plastic lined bras and/or bra pads and change the pads frequently to keep nipples dry.
Wear multiple-holed breast shells under your bra between nursings to protect nipples from rubbing against your bra.
Apply an ice pack to slightly numb the nipple, causing it to evert—which, in turn, will make it easier for the baby to latch on. If nipple tenderness persists, or if your nipples become cracked or blistered, consult your doctor or lactation consultant.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.