What to do if nipples hurt when breastfeeding

Many women choose to breastfeed their babies after giving birth. Breast milk has a higher nutritional content and can provide the baby's body with the nutrients it needs after birth. However, many mothers are prone to nipple pain after breastfeeding. This is because the baby sucks the nipple tightly. It can be relieved by applying a hot towel to the nipple. If the pain is severe, breastfeeding needs to be stopped.

What to do if nipple pain occurs during breastfeeding?

1. Hot towel compress

If you have nipple pain, you can apply a hot towel to the nipple and areola before breastfeeding. Keeping it on for about 3 to 5 minutes can relieve the pain. At the same time, you can also assist with massage, which can effectively stimulate the milk ejection reflex, and then press the breasts with your hands to squeeze out some milk, so that the areola can become softer and easier for the baby to suck.

2. Choose the right breastfeeding position

Nipple pain may be related to an inappropriate breastfeeding position for a long time. Before breastfeeding, you can choose a comfortable position, try to let the baby hold the nipple and most of the areola, and the position of each breastfeeding should not be too fixed. This can reduce the stimulation caused by the water to him and effectively relieve the pain.

3. Stop breastfeeding

If the nipple pain is severe and unbearable, and cracks appear and are difficult to heal for a long time, breastfeeding can be suspended. Generally, the pain can be effectively relieved after pausing for about 24 hours. However, during the break in breastfeeding, the milk needs to be expressed. At this time, you can use both hands to press and express the milk, put it in a small delivery bag, or in a small quilt to feed the baby.

4. Choose comfortable underwear

If you experience nipple pain during breastfeeding, it is best to choose loose and comfortable cotton underwear and bras. This will allow air to circulate around the nipples, effectively promote nipple cracking, quickly heal, and relieve pain.

There are many reasons for nipple pain during breastfeeding. When the pain becomes unbearable, you can use the above methods to relieve it. At the same time, you should also pay attention to keeping the nipples clean and try to clean them with warm water every day to prevent bacterial growth.

If this is the reason, make sure your child has the correct way to suckle. When breastfeeding, you should adopt the correct posture and apply a warm towel to the nipple to keep it moist. Letting the baby feed in this condition can relieve nipple pain. Of course, if the pain is still severe, you can apply some soap or alcohol on the nipples. This can effectively reduce some bad movements of the baby during breastfeeding that lead to nipple pain.