What to do if my nipples hurt when they are sucked?

Mothers who have breastfeeding experience can deeply understand the pain of nipples being sucked by babies during breastfeeding. In severe cases, nipples may become cracked and the pain is unbearable. In this case, the mother must do a good job of care. She should apply warm water to the breasts before feeding and massage the breasts at the same time. In addition, after feeding, she should squeeze out the milk and apply it on the nipples, and then keep them dry to reduce bacterial growth.

1. Can I still breastfeed my baby if my nipples are cracked?

Generally speaking, the main reason for mother's nipple rupture is that the skin of the mother's nipples is relatively delicate. When a new mother first starts, the milk secretion is not much, so the baby needs to suck hard to drink enough milk, which inevitably breaks the mother's nipples. Generally speaking, this has no effect on the baby. But it is a painful torture for the mother, but this situation will improve after a period of time. It can be said that this is something that every mother will experience, so there is no need to worry too much! If the mother has enough milk, the ruptured side can be temporarily rested for two days. No need to apply medicine, generally this situation will be relieved in one to two days. Moms don't have to worry.

2. What are the treatments for postpartum nipple rupture?

1. When the nipples are cracked, apply hot and wet compresses before each feeding, massage the breasts to stimulate the milk ejection reflex, and then squeeze out a little milk to soften the areola, making it easier for the nipple to connect with the baby's mouth.

2. When feeding, suck the healthy breast first. If both breasts are cracked, suck the lighter side first. Make sure the baby holds the nipple and most of the areola in his mouth, and change the feeding position frequently to reduce the stimulation to the nipple when sucking hard.

3. After feeding, press the baby's lower jaw lightly with your index finger, and when the baby opens his mouth, take the opportunity to pull out the nipple. Do not pull the nipple out of the baby's mouth abruptly.

4. After each breastfeeding, squeeze out a little milk and apply it on the nipples and areola to keep the nipples dry. At the same time, the protein in the milk promotes the repair of damaged nipples.

What are the ways to prevent nipple rupture?

Nipple cracks often heal and then recur. In order to avoid recurrence, it is very important to take preventive measures.

1. Gently wipe the nipples frequently with a dry, soft towel to increase the toughness of the nipple epidermis and avoid damage during sucking.

2. Inverted or flat nipples will greatly affect breastfeeding and should be actively corrected. Every time you scrub the nipple, gently pinch the nipple outward with your hands; or gently pull the nipple outward with your fingers while twisting it, and then wipe the nipple with 70% alcohol. Once the nipple skin becomes tough, it is no longer prone to inversion.

3. Develop good breastfeeding habits and breastfeed regularly every day. Each breastfeeding time should not be too long, 15-20 minutes is enough, and once every 4 hours.

4. Wash the nipples and areola, including the hard scabs on the nipples, with warm water before and after each feeding. Keep them dry and clean to prevent cracks on the nipples and areola skin.