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Breastfeeding is meant to be a
comfortable, pleasant experience. Most of us
have heard stories of sore nipples. You can
avoid this problem most of the time. However,
many new mothers still find their nipples are
tender for the first few days when the baby
starts nursing. This usually disappears by one
to two weeks.
It is important to remember that blisters,
cracking, bleeding and/or pain that continues
during or in between feedings is not normal.
Check with a lactation consultant, your health
care provider, or Mother support group leader,
if you have any of these problems.
To prevent sore nipples, start by making sure
baby is properly positioned while breastfeeding.
The baby must be held close to you, turned towards
you, facing you, with his abdomen touching yours.
His head should be cradled in the crook of your
elbow
To prevent sore nipples, breastfeed frequently,
every 1-1/2 to 3 hours (eight to 12 feeding
per 24 hours).
Release the suction before you remove your
baby from the breast. Do this by placing a clean
finger in the side of your baby's mouth between
his jaws. Do not take him away until you feel
the suction break.
After nursing your baby, express a little milk
and massage it into your nipples and areola,
then air dry. Leave them open to the air as
much as possible.
Never use soap, alcohol or breast creams on
your breasts or nipples. Water is all that is
needed to clean your breasts when you shower
or bathe.
If your nipples do get sore, there are several
steps you can take to ease the discomfort.
Use deep breathing, soft music, or other relaxation
techniques before and during breastfeeding.
Limit the nursing time on the sore nipple.
Nurse on the least sore side first.
Express a little milk first to stimulate let
down.
Massage your breasts while nursing. This helps
stimulate the milk to flow.
Use non-plastic lined bras and/or bra pads.
Change the pads frequently to keep the nipple
dry.
If your breasts become engorged, try expressing
a little milk first. Engorged  breasts
make it difficult for your baby to latch-on.
Expressing a little milk by hand or pump helps
make the areola softer, nipple more erect and
latch-on easier.
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