Sore nipples causes and prevention

Sore nipples:causes, treatment and prevention

Sore nipple is different from temporary pain which lasts for about 30 to 60 seconds.

Researches have shown that the most important cause of nipple soreness is improper positioning of the baby on the breast which causes the baby not take the nipple deep enough into his mouth. The baby ends up sucking on the nipple rather than the breast. This causes the nipple pain.  

Other causes of nipple pain include:

(a)    Infection in the milk duct which is called mastitis in medical field.

(b)    Breast engorgement which is another breastfeeding discomfort. 

(c)    Baby is tongue-tie or lip-tie.

(d)    Strong suckling by baby

(e)    Unusual nipple anatomy such as inverted or flat nipples.

(f)    Teething. If your baby has tender gums due to teething, she may change the way she moves her tongue. If she is not able take in a big mouthful of breast, she may end up biting your nipple.

Treatment of sore nipples

In most cases, nipple pain can be solved by adjusting the positioning of your baby during breastfeeding.

A good position occurs when the baby is able to take the nipple deeply enough into his mouth. He is able to have the entire nipple and part of the breast in his mouth, so that the nipple is near the back of his mouth. A proper latch also means that the baby latches on with his head tipped back and his chin is pressed into the mother’s breast with his nose away from the breast. 

Prevention of nipples pain

You can do the following to prevent nipple pain:

1. If you feel your baby nipple-chewing, break the suction, remove your baby from your breast, and try attaching him again.
2. If your baby is sucking his tongue, you may hear a smacking sound and see his cheeks caving in. Take your baby off your breast and reposition him.
3. Ensure proper release by inserting a finger between your baby's jaws to break the suction before removing him from your breast.This can prevent your baby from clinging to the breast and damage it when you remove him or her. 
4. Allow your nipples to air dry after each feeding. This can help to prevent any infection.
5. Keep the nipple area free from Irritation by avoiding breast cream that is dry or contain alcohol. This helps to prevent infection or kill the germs.

Nursing room Suntect