Sore Nipples When Breastfeeding

Sore Nipples When Breastfeeding

 

Woman holds hands over left breast

Preventing sore nipples

Breastfeeding is meant to be a comfortable, rewarding experience for you and your baby. Some women report some nipple tenderness the first few days, but this should disappear within 1 to 2 weeks.

There are some basic things that will help you to avoid having sore nipples after that.

  • Find breastfeeding positions that work well for you.
  • Work with your baby to get a deep latch for feeding.
  • Do not use soap on your nipples when washing.

Reasons for sore nipples

There may be different reasons for sore nipples, including:

  • Baby not latching on well or has a shallow latch.
  • Baby not positioned well during feeding.
  • Breasts engorged or not being emptied often.
  • Your nipples are flat or inverted (turned inward).
  • Removing baby from the breast before breaking the suction (latch).
  • Breast pump not used the right way.

If your nipples are cracked, bleeding, bruised or blistered, have them checked by a lactation consultant.

Treating sore nipples

Your first step is to figure out why they are getting sore. Here are some things to try.

  • Make sure that your baby is latched on with your nipple deep into the baby’s mouth. This protects the nipple from more damage.
  • Always use your finger in the corner of your baby’s mouth to gently break the suction before taking baby off of the breast.
  • Breastfeed often (every 1½ to 3 hours for 8 to 12 feedings a day) to prevent engorgement.
  • Vary nursing positions to change the baby’s positions on the nipple.
  • Hand express milk onto your nipples before and after feedings.
  • After feeding, allow the nipples to air dry.
  • Apply a pea-size amount of ultra-pure, modified lanolin by gently patting the nipples. This also treats dry skin on the nipple and areola. Ask a lactation consultant about other product options.
  • Your nurse may recommend hydrogel pads and can give you some in the hospital.

© 2000 – November 10, 2021, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or health care team if you have any questions about your care. For more health information, call the Library for Health Information at 614-293-3707 or email: health-info@osu.edu.