Tender nipples are common at the start of a feed for the first week of breastfeeding. However, if nipples are very sore, or are cracked, bruised, or bleeding, there is something wrong. Almost always, sore nipples are caused by improper positioning of the baby at the breast. Click here to learn on how to get the best position and latch for breastfeeding.
Other causes of sore nipples include: 1) engorgement; 2) incorrect use of a pump; 3) pacifiers or bottles causing your baby to have nipple confusion and therefore breastfeeding incorrectly; 4) yeast infection; or 5) removing baby from breast without first breaking the seal by inserting your finger in the corner of her mouth.
Taking the baby off the breast is a last resort. There are lots of ways to treat sore nipples:
If you are unable to breastfeed at all because of pain, in spite of trying all the above methods, try taking a short (2-5 day) break from breastfeeding to allow the nipples to heal. During this time, it is best for you and the baby if the baby is fed your expressed milk. Click here for information about pumping and bottle feeding. That way you can keep your milk supply up and continue breastfeeding once your nipples have healed.
Category: Breastfeeding