Breast feeding problems and solutions : Sore nipples

Is it normal that my nipples pain when my baby feeds?

Painful nipples are so common to new nursing mums that many think they are part and parcel of breastfeeding. But there is a lot you can do to help or prevent sore nipples. It's normal to feel some tenderness at the beginning of a feed during the first few days of breastfeeding. But severe or lasting pain is not normal. Breastfeeding should be enjoyable for you and your baby. If it isn't, it's a sure sign that you need to make some changes.

What causes painful nipples and what can I do about them?

A variety of things may be making your nipples hurt, but it's most likely to be the way your baby is breastfeeding. If the technique's not right, and your baby is not latching on well, the result could be pain for you. One or several of the following problems could be giving you painful nipples:

Cause	Problem	Solution
Difficulty latching on	If your baby has to suck or pull your nipple into her mouth it can become painful for you.	Check that your baby is latching on properly by seeing our illustrated guide on how to breastfeed. If your nipples are very painful and cracked or bleeding, you can use a purified lanolin ointment or cream on them.
Tongue-tie	This means that your baby's tongue is attached to the bottom of her mouth. This will stop her from latching on well.	Ask your doctor to check your baby's tongue. Tongue-tie can be easily treated in young babies by a simple procedure called a frenulotomy.
Thrush	If your nipples are painful after a spell of pain-free feeding, you might have thrush.	Your doctor can prescribe an antifungal treatment for you and your baby. If you have thrush on your nipples, it will also be in your baby's mouth.
Dermatitis	Inflamed and itchy nipples could be the sign of dermatitis. This can be caused by creams, lotions or soaps that irritate your skin.	Wash your breasts with clean water only.
Teething	When your baby is teething, she might bite or chew on your nipples leaving them sore	If your baby is latched on well, the nipple will be too far into her mouth to bite on. So make sure your baby latches on properly. You can do this by touching her lips to your nipple and then moving her quickly onto your breast as she responds.
Breastfeeding during pregnancy	Your nipples are tender because you're pregnant again and this might make breastfeeding painful.	You'll have to be patient! Your nipples should only be tender in the early days of your new pregnancy. If your nipples get really sore, you can use a purified lanolin ointment or cream to soothe them.
Soreness from your bra or breastpads	A badly fitting bra can put pressure on your nipples. Some breast pads and plastic linings in bras may also be culprits. They don't let your skin breathe, making the problem worse by trapping too much moisture.	Buy a bigger or more comfortable bra. Use breastpads made from natural materials. If your nipples are cracked you could also try healing pads.

Will my sore nipples affect my baby?

If your nipples are sore your baby is unlikely to be latched on well at the breast. This may mean that your baby doesn't get enough of the calorie-rich hindmilk at the end of a feed. If this is the case, she may not put on enough weight and is unsettled after feeds.

Can I breastfeed my baby even if I have sore nipples?

Yes. But if you're still feeling very sore even after trying the above tips, consult your doctor.