Sore Nipples from Breastfeeding

Mothers can expect some tenderness during the first few days of breastfeeding. However, painful or cracked nipples usually develop because of improper position of the baby at the breast or a poor latch-on. Correct positioning and latch-on are most important for preventing sore nipples.

The baby's mouth should open wide, taking in a large mouthful of breast tissue covering most of the areola; his chin should be pressed into the breast, so that more areola shows above his upper lip than below his lower jaw. Make sure to bring baby to the breast rather than the breast to the baby. The baby's lips should be flanged out and relaxed. His body should be tucked in close to the mother, with his chest, tummy and feet pressed into the mother's body. The baby's head should directly face the mother so that he doesn't have to turn his head or bend his neck. A pillow under the baby will help keep baby at breast level without straining your arm, shoulder, neck or back muscles.

Once latched on properly, the baby will suck quickly for a short period of time to stimulate milk release; once your milk lets down, you usually can hear audible swallowing every one or two sucks. Breastfeeding should continue even when you are experiencing sore nipples; delayed feedings may cause engorgement, which makes it more difficult for the baby to latch on and increases the problem.

Some ways to treat sore nipples include:

• Breaking suction by slipping your finger into the corner of your baby's mouth before taking baby off the breast.
• Offering the least-sore breast first
• Applying pure modified lanolin to nipples
• Using only plain water to wash the nipple and areola (Soap can dry the skin and exacerbate the cracking.)

If the problems persist, contact your health provider or a lactation consultant.