Sore nipples are a common side effect of breastfeeding – especially in the first days and weeks. The good news is that there are ways to stop it from happening, and to treat it when it does, so you don’t have to give up.
First, you need to make sure that your child is latching correctly. Your baby needs to take the entire nipple, and the areola into his or her mouth. It can take a little practice to get this right, and you may need to tickle your child’s lips or chin to get him or her to latch correctly.
There are also lanolin creams that you can use to soothe sore nipples. These are safe and non toxic, so you don’t need to wash them off before feeding again. Cool breast packs that you can slip into your bra can also help.
If you have tried these, and they don’t work, then you should speak to your doctor. There are lactation consultants out there that can help you to breastfeed correctly, and your doctor should be able to refer you to one in your area.
There are also lanolin creams that you can use to soothe sore nipples. These are safe and non toxic, so you don’t need to wash them off before feeding again. Cool breast packs that you can slip into your bra can also help.
If you have tried these, and they don’t work, then you should speak to your doctor. There are lactation consultants out there that can help you to breastfeed correctly, and your doctor should be able to refer you to one in your area.
