Common Breastfeeding Problems: Sore Nipples

RECOMMENDED TREATMENT:

     Put a warm compress on the sore breast before each
         breastfeeding. A warm washcloth, a warm shower or tub bath,
         or soaking the breast in a pan of warm water works well.

Position the baby correctly on the breast. Turn your baby on his
        side or tuck him under your arm so that his head and chest are
        facing your breast. Use pillows to support the baby at the level of
        your breast. Tickle his upper and lower lips with your nipple until
        his mouth opens wide. Position the baby's lower lip against your
        breast and quickly but gently place the baby on the breast. Don't
        let him nibble his way on. Your nipple will point toward the roof
        of the baby's mouth. Do not lean forward. Bring the baby to you.
        His tongue should be over his lower gum, between his lower lip
        and the breast. His lips should turn out, like a fish, and lie flat
        against the breast. His chin should press firmly into the breast.
        His nose and cheeks should gently touch the breast.

If necessary, express a small amount of breastmilk or colostrum
to soften the breast before you allow the baby to latch on.

Breastfeed on the least sore breast first. When a let-down reflex
         occurs and milk begins to flow, move the baby to the sore
         breast and breastfeed only long enough to relieve the fullness
         and soften the breast.

If necessary, limit the breastfeeding time on the sore breast and
breastfeed more often, every 1-2 hours.

Hold the baby close to prevent unnecessary pulling on the
         breast. Break the suction before removing the baby from the
         breast.

After each breastfeeding, put a small amount of colostrum or
         breastmilk on the areola and nipple of each breast. Air dry
         nipples after each breastfeeding or dry gently with a soft cloth.

Do not wash the nipples before each breastfeeding. Even water,
         used often, will dry the skin. Avoid soaps, creams, lotions, and
         oils. If the nipples crack or bleed, put a small amount of
         modified lanolin on the damaged area after each
         breastfeeding.

If soreness, cracking, or bleeding continues, stop breastfeeding
         for 24 hours to let the nipple(s) heal. Hand express or pump to
         relieve fullness during this time. If only one breast is sore,
         continue to breastfeed on the other breast.

Thick, yellow material draining from the damaged area can be a
          sign of infection. Call your doctor, lactation consultant, or nurse
          for treatment.

If necessary, take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.

Continue to Page 3