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Breastfeeding is best. It is something that doctors, nurses, many parents, and even the formula companies say. However, it isn't necessary pain free and easy. Many moms never have sore nipples, others suffer with really painful ones and struggle to find solutions that work at comforting their painful nipples. There are a lot of options out there and some are safe for you and your baby, others aren't good for one of you or even both of you. Get armed with knowledge for relief from your painful nipples.

Latching on and Positioning.

Painful nipples are usually caused from poor latch on or bad positioning. With this in mind you will want to evaluate how you breastfeed your baby. Your baby should be well supported, brought to your breast, should have his or her face tilted away from the breast, and the nipple should naturally point to the back of the mouth. When latching on the baby should take all of the nipple deep into his or her mouth, should also have a good portion of the areola (the brown area surrounding the nipple) in their mouth, and should have a wide open mouth with lips positioned outward. If there is pain with latch on and you aren't experiencing engorgement at the time then you should consider talking to your doctor, your babies doctor, or a lactation consultant for help in getting a proper position and latch on.

Breast milk.

Before and after feeding you should gently express a few drops of milk and rub it around your nipples. This helps to moisturize the skin and can help prevent soreness, cracked, and aching nipples as well as infection. You can also do it throughout the day if you are feeling sore and tender.

Lanolin.

You can buy a product called Lanolin (make sure you get 100% lanolin) that is great for treating sore nipples. It is safe for you and you don't have to wash it off before feeding the baby because it is also safe for the baby. To use gently soften a small amount (about the size of a pea) between two fingers and coat your nipples. It is greasy and should be used after or between feedings rather then right before feedings because it can make it difficult to latch on. This product helps keep nipples soft and supple and can even provide instant relief.

Saline Soaks.

Another way to get some instant relief is to take 1 cup warm water and 1 tablespoon of table salt. Soak your nipples in the soothing solution for 10-15 minutes and allow to air dry. This doesn't prevent the problem, but can provide instant relief and can also help you

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