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Relief for Breastfeeding Pain

Sore, painful nipples are a common problem with early breastfeeding. This can happen to moms if their baby has a strong suck or if they’re not getting a good latch, but usually improves with practice or help.

Mother breastfeeding baby while sitting in room
Here are tips to help prevent sore nipples and treat pain you may be having:
Tip #1
Check Your Baby’s Latch
  • To help with latching, encourage your baby to open their mouth wide by tickling their lips with your finger or nipple. Pull your baby close by supporting their back (rather than the back of their head) so their chin dives into the breast and their nose is touching the breast at the nipple.
  • You can also encourage your baby to latch on by using your hand to gently squeeze a little milk out of your nipple.
  • Untuck your baby's lips so they look like fish lips. A wide latch should look almost like a straight line so your baby can get more than your nipple in their mouth.
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Did you know?

Your nipple should be round when it goes into your baby’s mouth, and you should make sure it is not a different color or shape when it comes out. Always break your baby’s suction with your finger when they are coming off the breast.

Tip #2
Use Topical Treatment
  • Keep nipples covered with a medical-grade pure lanolin ointment and a hydrogel dressing, Soothies Gel Pads, or Saran Wrap. A moist environment will help wounds heal and allow any cracks to heal without scabbing or crusting.
  • It can be helpful to cool the gel or wrap by placing it on a clean plate in the refrigerator while nursing. Mini–ice packs can be made from 4” × 4” gauze placed in a resealable bag in the freezer. With severe nipple damage, temporary use of a plastic nipple shield may help during healing.
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Important Note

Washing lanolin off nipples is not needed.

Tip #3
Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Pain Control
  • Ibuprofen (like Advil or Motrin) is often a good choice for treating pain caused by inflammation. Ask your healthcare provider if ibuprofen is a safe option for you.
  • If your baby’s latch is not improving, reach out to your baby’s healthcare provider or WIC for support. WIC has lactation experts who can help.

You may see blood from your cracked nipples in your baby’s stool, but this does not hurt your baby.

Tea bags, a common folk remedy, are NOT recommended for sore nipples because the tannic acid in tea is an astringent and can cause drying and cracking, making the problem worse.

Mother breastfeeding baby, supported by healthcare professional

You’ve Got This!​ You’ve Got This!​

Sore nipples can make breastfeeding hard, but you’re not alone—and help is available. With a good latch, some gentle care, and support from your healthcare provider or WIC, things can get better. Every feeding is a chance to heal and learn together with your baby. Be kind to yourself—you’re doing something amazing!

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REFERENCES:

Adapted from Breastfeeding Telephone Triage and Advice 5th edition© Maya Bunik MD MPH

Author: Dr. Maya Bunik, MD, MPH