3 of 4

Write now Article Tools

Sore nipples are the main complaint of newly nursing mothers and can put a huge damper on establishing or even furthering a breastfeeding relationship with your baby. Here are some things I have learned from nursing my daughter (now 10 months old, and still nursing!). Please note that it's always best to consult medical personnel with each situation, as each person is different.

-Working on getting a good latch is vital. I found that as soon as my daughter got the hang of positioning herself correctly, the pain went away almost instantly. I learned a method where you place baby's chin and bottom lip against the breast first, as far back on the areola as possible, and then "scoop" or bring the baby's mouth up and over the nipple.

-Lanolin ointment can help in easing soreness, and is safe for baby too, so you don't have to wipe it off before a feeding.

-If your nipples are cracked and/or bleeding, express a small amount of milk at the end of a feeding, rub it on your nipples and let it air dry. Milk has antibacterial qualities in it.

-Keep your nipples away from soap, use only water to wash them, as soap can dry out the skin and make them more prone to soreness.

-To avoid a yucky thrush infection, each a cup of yogurt everyday. Thrush can make nursing unbearable. Also make sure to change nursing pads every couple of hours, especially when your milk comes in and leaves you leaking.

-If you think you're getting thrush, don't stop nursing! Use a water and white vinegar rinse on your nipples for relief, and wash your bras and nursing pads (if you're not using the disposable ones) in cold water with white vinegar. Hang bras in the sunlight to dry, as sunlight kills yeast. (Expose your breasts to the sun too, if you don't have nosy neighbors!)

If things still aren't improving, enlist the help of a lactation consultant or other knowledgeable breastfeeding person. Sometimes they can detect problems that a new mother can't. And most of all, don't give up! Breastfeeding can be hard work, but it's so rewarding and the very best thing you can do for your baby.

Learn more about this author, Amanda Billings.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Cures for sore nipples from breastfeeding?
We want to hear your view. Write now!