Nipples are among the most sensitive areas of our body and can react particularly sensitively to breastfeeding or hormonal changes in the body. Many mothers, especially at the beginning of breastfeeding, repeatedly struggle with sore, inflamed, cracked, and sometimes even bleeding nipples, suffering distressing pain that can make any mother despair.
Together with our midwife Charlotte, we explain possible causes and, above all, give you valuable tips on how to prevent sore nipples and easily treat them at home.
- Causes of Nipple Inflammation
- Preventing Sore Nipples
- Tips for Sore and Inflamed Nipples
- Which Ointment Helps with Inflamed Nipples?
- Can I Breastfeed with Bleeding Nipples?
- How Long Does it Take for the Inflammation to Heal?
What can be the causes of nipple inflammation?
Most importantly, for any woman who has never breastfed before, breastfeeding can be a big challenge. So we never want to make you feel like you're doing something wrong. Because you're trying, and if it doesn't work despite all your efforts, that's okay. We ourselves have experienced many breastfeeding stories in our team and want to tell you that you are not alone!
To still provide you with assistance, we list possible causes that can lead to persistent pain during breastfeeding:
- Suboptimal latch or difficult feeding technique, causing your baby not to "dock" optimally to the nipple. Your midwife or lactation consultant can help you with this - and then relief is quickly in sight!
- "Too much" milk, so that the breast is so full that the baby cannot grasp the nipple well. It can help to express some milk from the breast before feeding or to relieve the breast a little with a milk collection shell.
- Anatomical causes that cannot be resolved ad hoc: these can include a short frenulum or flat (inverted) nipples. In consultation with the treating doctors, measures can also be taken here to enable breastfeeding again.
- It is not uncommon for the nipple or milk ducts to become infected with a germ or fungus. Especially the moist environment in nursing pads and liners can promote this. We recommend changing nursing pads often, allowing plenty of air to reach the breast, and if possible, washing only with clear water in the shower every day.
How can I prevent sore nipples?
If you already pay attention to the points listed above, you are doing very well. In addition, we can recommend that you consider the following tips when breastfeeding:
- Bring the baby to the breast and not the breast to the baby. Let the baby really latch on properly, so that the nipple is completely in the mouth, and take your time if it doesn't work immediately.
- Always assume a comfortable breastfeeding position at the beginning and support your posture with a pillow behind your back or under your arms.
- Regularly change your position and your child's position while breastfeeding. At first glance, special postures like the football hold or lying down positions can help the baby latch on correctly and allow you to relax at the same time.
- Never forcefully remove the nipple, even if your baby has fallen asleep while breastfeeding. It is best to gently release the vacuum by carefully sliding your little finger into the corners of your baby's mouth.
Tips for sore and inflamed nipples
If your nipples are still inflamed or sore despite all measures, these tips can provide quick relief. Please be assured: We really sympathize with you and know how uncomfortable this can be!
- After breastfeeding, spread one or two drops of breast milk or some of the baby's saliva on the inflamed skin and let it air dry.
- Allow plenty of air to reach the breast so that the skin can regenerate and breathe after breastfeeding.
- Pay attention to breathable fabrics and materials for nursing bras and pads.
- So-called silverette cups can be placed on the nipple after breastfeeding and quickly help heal inflamed skin.
- Additionally, you can apply a mild nipple balm to the affected areas to keep the skin supple and help it heal quickly.
Which ointment helps with inflamed nipples?
To soothe inflamed breasts and support the natural healing process, you can apply our vegan nipple balm after breastfeeding. High-quality almond oil and evening primrose oil provide long-lasting, rich care without feeling sticky. Thanks to the practical applicator and soft consistency, it is easy and, above all, hygienic to apply. The best part is that due to its natural ingredients, the balm does not need to be washed off before the next feeding.
Can I breastfeed with bleeding nipples?
Yes – and as described above, breastfeeding can even support the healing process. Your baby’s saliva and breast milk naturally cleanse the sore skin on the nipple and can promote healing. Silverette cups have also always helped us. However, if you experience truly severe pain that lasts for days, you should still contact your midwife or treating doctor.
How long does it take for the inflammation to heal?
The duration of nipple inflammation is very individual. However, it usually takes about one to two weeks for inflammation to significantly improve or heal.
If the symptoms persist or even worsen, we recommend that you contact your midwife, specialist doctor, and/or a lactation consultant to rule out a bacterial infection and discuss further treatment steps. In general, you can always get valuable tips on breastfeeding from these experts.
O U R E X P E R T
Charlotte I Midwife B.Sc.
