Motherhood is worth every sacrifice, but when a mother's health starts to falter, she needs to take care of herself just as much as she does her little one. After all, she is the one providing all the essential nutrients through her milk and spending the most time with her baby. Staying healthy means giving your child the very best.
One of the most common yet rarely discussed challenges new mothers face is sore nipples during breastfeeding. This issue affects the vast majority of women, especially in the first days and weeks after delivery. While it can feel alarming, nipple pain is usually a normal part of the adjustment period and not a sign of anything that cannot be resolved.
Why Do Nipples Become Sore During Breastfeeding?
In the early postpartum period, nipples are highly sensitive. Hormonal shifts are still in full swing as the body adapts to its new role, and the frequency and length of feeding sessions put considerable strain on delicate skin. For most mothers, the discomfort subsides within one to two weeks after birth — the period when feeds tend to be longest and most frequent.
However, if the pain persists beyond that window, the underlying cause may be something else entirely. Common reasons include:
- Incorrect latch or positioning — the baby may not be latching deeply enough
- Overly strong suction — some babies simply suck harder than others
- Pulling the baby off the breast before they have finished feeding
- Sucking reflex irregularities in the newborn
- Engorgement or milk stasis — when milk builds up and is not emptied regularly
Recognising the Symptoms
The most obvious sign is pain during and after feeding. Breasts need time to adapt to the sucking motion, and during this adjustment period you may also notice chafing, small scabs, or spots on the nipple surface. In some cases, the skin may crack and bleed slightly.
If, however, nipples become severely red, swollen, or are accompanied by fever, these could be signs of a more serious condition such as mastitis (breast infection). In that situation, it is important to see a healthcare professional promptly and follow their recommended course of action.
[warning:Severe redness, significant swelling, or fever during breastfeeding may indicate mastitis. Always consult a healthcare professional if these symptoms appear.]Practical Ways to Manage and Prevent Nipple Pain
Adjust Your Breastfeeding Position
This is the single most effective step for pain caused by the breast adjusting to feeding or by the baby sucking too forcefully. Experiment with different positions until you find one that causes the least discomfort. Supporting your elbow on a cushion or armrest can help you maintain a comfortable hold without straining.
Start With the Less Sensitive Side
It might seem like a small detail, but it matters. Babies tend to suck most vigorously at the beginning of a feed when they are hungriest. By offering the less painful breast first, you spare the more sensitive side from the strongest suction.
Feed More Frequently
Offering the breast every one to two hours may actually help relieve pain caused by engorgement. Regular, frequent feeds keep the breasts emptied, which reduces sensitivity and the feeling of fullness that can make latching more painful.
If your baby is not hungry, a breast pump is an excellent alternative. Expressing milk allows you to store it in bags or containers for later use — handy when someone else needs to feed the baby or when direct breastfeeding is not an option. Browse our breastfeeding accessories for pumps, storage solutions, and more.
Use Silicone Nipple Shields
When direct contact between the baby's mouth and the nipple causes too much irritation, silicone nipple shields can serve as a protective barrier. They reduce friction and allow the nipple skin to recover while still enabling effective feeding.
[products:medela-purelan-lanolin-ointment-for-sore-nipples-and-dry-skin-37-g, philips-avent-silicone-nipple-shields-medium-21-mm-2-pieces, philips-avent-silicone-nipple-shields-small-15-mm-2-pieces, akuku-silicone-breast-shields-2-pieces, nacomi-breast-care-cream-for-pregnant-women-130-ml, philips-avent-disposable-breast-pads-100-pieces]Keep Your Hands Clean
It sounds basic, but in the whirlwind of new parenthood it can easily be overlooked. Washing your hands thoroughly before every feed minimises the risk of transferring bacteria to the nipple, which could otherwise contribute to infection or inflammation.
Be Gentle When Detaching
Never pull the baby off the breast while they are still actively sucking. Instead, gently slide a clean finger into the corner of their mouth to break the seal. This prevents the sharp tug at the end of a feed that can cause additional damage to already sensitive tissue.
Apply Warm Compresses
Placing a small towel soaked in warm water on the breasts for a few minutes before feeding can help widen the milk ducts. When milk flows more easily, the baby does not need to suck as forcefully, which reduces strain on the nipples.
Proper Nipple Care Makes All the Difference
Beyond adjusting feeding technique, a consistent care routine can speed up healing and keep discomfort to a minimum.
- Let your breasts air-dry. Spending ten to fifteen minutes a day with your breasts uncovered allows oxygen to reach the skin and promotes healing of micro-irritations.
- Cleanse gently once a day. Use warm water, saline solution, or a mild herbal rinse such as sage to maintain cleanliness and soothe the skin.
- Change nursing pads regularly. If you use disposable or reusable breast pads to protect your clothing, replace them several times a day. A damp, soiled pad left in place for too long creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, increasing the risk of infection.
- Apply lanolin ointment. Lanolin has been trusted by breastfeeding mothers for generations. It soothes soreness, moisturises cracked skin, and supports faster healing — all without needing to be wiped off before feeding.
When to Seek Professional Help
Most nipple soreness resolves on its own within the first two weeks. But if pain worsens, persists beyond that timeframe, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, intense redness, or significant swelling, do not wait — consult a lactation specialist or your healthcare provider. Early intervention can prevent complications and get you back to comfortable feeding sooner.
Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish — it is essential. A healthy mother means a healthy, happy baby. For more guidance and products to support you through pregnancy and beyond, explore our dedicated section for mothers and our pregnancy health collection.
Key Takeaway: Sore nipples are a common and usually temporary part of breastfeeding. With the right positioning, consistent care, and a few helpful products, most mothers find relief within the first couple of weeks.
