Newborn babies can feed as many as 12 times a day. With so much feeding going on, your breasts may feel sore or sensitive. Your nipple and areola -- the brown area around the nipple -- might feel particularly tender. The sudden production of milk can also cause your breasts to feel uncomfortably swollen during the first few weeks. To alleviate sore and tender breasts, alter your breastfeeding technique and pay special attention to your nipples. Consult your doctor or a lactation consultant if your nipples and breast stay sore for a long period or cause you to avoid breastfeeding altogether.
Nipples
Step 1
Use a rolling pin to crush some ice and put it in a plastic bag. Wrap the plastic bag in fabric, such as a kitchen towel and apply it to your nipple a few minutes before breastfeeding. This alleviates soreness and gets the nipple ready for feeding.
Step 2
Wear cotton pads and cotton bras to protect the nipple between feeds. Always remove and change a cotton pad when it gets wet; otherwise it might make your nipple more tender.
Step 3
Dab a few drops of your own breast milk on the nipple and surrounding areola to soothe the area slightly. Allow to dry naturally before putting your bra and shirt back on.
Step 4
Smear a little pure lanolin ointment onto your nipple and areola. Buy purified lanolin treatments over the counter in drug stores or similar. This ointment alleviates soreness without triggering a rash or leaving toxic residue for your baby to ingest.
Breast and Technique
Step 1
Soak a clean washcloth in warm water and lay it on your breast for 5 minutes before feeding. This helps soften the breast and get milk flowing.
Step 2
Feed your baby eight to 12 times a day, every day. This ensures that your breast milk isn't building up and engorging the breast and that your baby is getting enough milk.
Step 3
Gently press around your nipple to release a little milk before feeding. Rub it into the areola. This softens the area and makes it easier for the baby to latch onto the breast.
Step 4
Ensure the baby presses up into the breast when feeding and doesn't suck from the end of the nipple.
Step 5
Offer your child the less-sore breast when feeding. Try to switch breasts mid-feed to alleviate tenderness and help your child feed more successfully.
Tips and Warnings
- Try creating a relaxed environment before breastfeeding. Use soft lighting and gentle music. The more relaxed the mother and baby, the less likely any breastfeeding problems.
- Avoid taking painkillers until you have discussed safe options with your doctor. Don't continue to breastfeed on a cracked, swollen or bleeding nipple until you speak with a doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Rolling pin
- Ice
- Plastic bags
- Towel
- Cotton breast pads
- Pure lanolin ointment
- Washcloth
