Remedies for nipple pain
At the beginning of breastfeeding, you may experience sore nipples. Up
to 90% of young mothers have sore nipples. This is a very common condition that
is temporary and usually resolves in a few days. Most mothers note that the
peak of nipple pain occurs on the fifth day of breastfeeding, and then
subsides.
Luckily, there are ways to ease the pain and help your nipples heal
quickly! Below we will discuss some causes of nipple pain and some strategies
to overcome it.
Should I continue breastfeeding?
It is very important to continue breastfeeding if your nipples hurt.
First, try feeding your baby a less sore nipple. she won't suckle the second,
more inflamed nipple as hard. If breastfeeding is too painful, use a breast
pump or manual breast pump to keep your milk flowing.
Breast milk can also help nipples heal due to its antibacterial
protection. If you have a cracked nipple or damaged skin, squeeze out a few
drops and gently rub them into the nipple. Let your nipples air dry before
covering them with a bra or breast pad.
What causes nipple pain?
There can be several causes of sore nipples, including:
- Incorrect or incomplete
blocking
- Slippage during feeding
- The child has a tongue tied
(limited or shortened brake)
- Have inverted or flat nipples
- Feeding too late (signs of
early or late feeding)
- Body position during
breastfeeding.
- Stop breastfeeding without
interrupting suckling.
- Wearing bras that are too tight
on the nipples.
Remedies for sore nipples and preventive measures
If nipple pain persists for more than 7 days, goes away and then
returns, or if your nipples are actively bleeding, see a lactation consultant
or doctor for an evaluation.
Natural
Research shows that warm, moist heat soothes sore nipples and promotes
faster skin healing. To use damp heat, rinse a clean washcloth or cloth diaper
under warm (not hot) water, squeeze out excess water, and place it directly on
the nipple.
When it cools down to room temperature, repeat the process. Many mothers
also find this method helpful in relieving the discomfort of engorgement that
can come with sore nipples.
Another natural way to help nipple pain and healing is to express a
small amount of milk by hand and gently rub it into the nipple. Before putting
your nursing bra back on, be sure to let it air dry.
Back pressure mitigation can be a useful treatment or preventive measure
for severe breast swelling (possibly excessive swelling due to intravenous
fluids during labor or breast engorgement that prevents the baby from reaching
or clinging to the nipple). Light pressure with one or two fingers on the base
of the nipple can move part of this tumor away from the nipple.
Time/Positioning of breastfeeding (Preventative)
Sore nipples can occur if your baby doesn't hold tight or properly. If
you put your baby to the breast when he is crying and desperate for milk, the
baby may not have enough time to latch on properly, which can cause problems
with the mother's nipples and the baby's drinking.
To avoid this, look for early signs of hunger (as opposed to late ones
such as crying), such as when the baby opens its mouth, sucks on its fingers or
hands, and/or moves its head to the side.
A good latch begins when the baby's mouth is wide open (like a yawn),
the tongue is tight and thrust forward. If you think your baby is not
breastfeeding properly, don't be afraid to gently stop suckling (by placing
your finger on the edge of the baby's mouth) and change position.
Creams and products
While most creams and ointments won't help your nipples heal faster,
they do create a soothing barrier for your tender nipples. Avoid ointments that
contain lanolin, as they can cause allergic reactions and have a strong smell
and taste that may prevent your baby from breastfeeding. The new ointments are
based on olive oil and do not have a particular smell or taste that can affect
your child's senses.
You can also find a nipple cream that includes Self Heal and/or
Calendula to help heal in addition to soothing sore nipples.
Hydrogel pads are another product that creates a soothing barrier for sore nipples. These thin plates of silicone-like material are about the size of the areola and can reduce the friction of the material (breast pads, bra cups) on the nipple.