Sore nipples are common during the first weeks of breastfeeding. Often, the discomfort can be reduced by ensuring a good latch, letting the nipples air-dry after breastfeeding, and using a protective nipple cream. If the pain is severe or does not improve, you should seek help from a midwife or a breastfeeding clinic.
Is it normal to have sore nipples when breastfeeding?
Many new mothers experience sore or sensitive nipples during the first days and weeks of breastfeeding.
As the baby learns to breastfeed and the breasts get used to the new strain, it is common to experience:
- Soreness
- Redness
- Sensitivity
- Dry skin
- Small cracks
However, the pain should gradually decrease once breastfeeding is going well.
Why do you get sore nipples?
The most common reason is that the baby does not have an optimal latch on the breast.
Other causes can be:
- Incorrect nursing position
- Dry skin
- Cracks in the skin
- Fungal infection
- Engorgement
- The baby nursing very frequently during periods
How can you take care of sore nipples?
There are several things that many find helpful:
Ensure a good latch
If the baby has a deep latch on the breast, the strain on the nipple is reduced.
Air-dry after breastfeeding
Allowing the nipples to air-dry after breastfeeding can help the skin recover.
Use a protective nipple cream
Many use a nipple cream with lanolin to moisturize and protect the skin between feedings.
Lanolin helps retain the skin's moisture and can be an option if the skin feels dry, sensitive, or has small cracks.
Use heat or cold as needed
If the breasts feel tense or sore, some may find that heat before breastfeeding feels soothing, while cold after breastfeeding can relieve swelling and discomfort.
When should you seek help?
Contact a midwife, child health center, or breastfeeding clinic if:
- The pain is severe
- You get deep cracks
- You suspect a fungal infection
- The discomfort does not improve
- Breastfeeding feels difficult or stressful
The sooner you get help, the easier it is to resolve the problems.
Frequently asked questions
Which nipple cream is best for breastfeeding?
Many choose a nipple cream with 100% lanolin because it helps protect and moisturize the skin between feedings.
Does heat or cold help with breastfeeding?
Many find that heat before breastfeeding can help the milk let down, while cold after breastfeeding can feel soothing for soreness or swelling.
Is it normal to be in pain when breastfeeding?
Some soreness in the beginning is common, but severe or persistent pain should not be ignored.
Can you breastfeed despite cracks on the nipples?
Yes, many continue to breastfeed despite minor cracks. If the pain is severe or the wounds are not healing, you should seek help.
Products that can help during breastfeeding
Many use various aids during the breastfeeding period, for example:
- Nipple cream with lanolin
- Warm or cold breast compresses
- Breast warmers
- Nursing pillows
- Breast pump
Which aids feel best varies from person to person.