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 relax.
Air.
Often times air is a great way to help sooth sore nipples. It isn't necessarily easy to get air time to your breasts, but getting 15-20 minutes a day can help. It is also possible for you to do this after another type of treatment.
Breast Packs.
There are a variety of breast packs that can be microwaved or frozen to help provide relief for a variety of discomforts that breastfeeding mothers experience. You can get these and experiment with warm and cold to help find your own maximum comfort.
Nipple Shells and Shields.
Sometimes nipples are so sore that you have a hard time having them touch the inside of your bra or shirt. You may want to use a nipple shell or shield. It should be noted that while shields are often used during feeding, this can be a bad thing because they can cause difficulties with the baby getting enough milk and can cause long term feeding issues. However, these devices can be worn inside the clothes to help protect the nipple from your clothing.
Home Remedies.
I am normally a huge fan of home remedies and there are many for almost any ailment. This is also true for sore nipples from breastfeeding. However, this is one case where home remedies is really a bad idea. Many home remedies for sore nipples are dangerous for you or your baby or the both of you. Some common home remedies to avoid include lotion, soap, and tea bags. These things can make your baby sick and can cause other issues for you. When it comes to sore nipples, talk to your doctor before you try a home remedy.
Sore nipples are a common complaint of breastfeeding mothers, but with some preventative medicine, a little care, and a little time and you can be free of it from you life. Try a few things and wore toward healthy and happy nipples and breasts. After all, breastfeeding is best, but difficult to do if you are in pain!