Sore Nipples

Do you have sore nipples?

Did you know that sore nipples are cited as one of the main reasons that mothers stop breastfeeding?

Sore nipples often occur if your baby is not quite attaching deep enough on the breast. Meaning that they may only have the nipple in their mouth and not enough the areola. This results in your nipple being squished against the hard palate of your babies mouth. Ouch!

If attachment can be corrected, even damaged nipples should not hurt and will heal quickly.

What to do if you have sore nipples?

• Offer a feed early before your little one starts crying

• Make yourself as relaxed and comfortable as possible

• During a feed try offering the less sore side first

• Take time to ensure your baby is properly positioned and attached

• Once you finish a feed, check your nipples for red stripes or a squashed look as these indicate that your baby is not attached properly

  You can also help the healing process by:

• Expressing a couple of drops of breastmilk after a feed onto the nipple and allowing it to air dry

• Change breast pads often

• Silverette nursing cups can also assist with healing

  Note: While in most cases sore nipples are the result of incorrect attachment, there are also other causes. These may be medical causes such as an infection, or anatomical causes such as a tongue tie.
  
  As always, please get support from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) if concerned.

As always, you’ve got this mama, and I’ve got you.