The most common complaint in the early days of breastfeeding is sore nipples.
We know breastfeeding isn’t easy for everybody and many new mums give up feeding earlier than they would like to. One of the most common complaints in the early days of breastfeeding is sore nipples.
There are many reasons why you might get sore nipples, the most usual reason is an imperfect latch, whether this latch is too shallow, with baby taking just the end of the nipple and not the areola, or at a funny angle, it is really important to get the positioning right as this alone can make the difference in you being very comfortable on your breastfeeding journey or finding it painful and not managing to breastfeed for as long as you would like to. Here is some information from the NHS about latching. There is a helpful video too.
Of course there are other reasons why you may have sore nipples such as tongue tie (please seek help from a healthcare professional if you suspect your baby may have a tongue tie), mastitis, hormone levels, thrush, friction on clothing etc.
Where to seek advice
There is plenty of help out there for new mums who want to breastfeed their baby. Your midwife, doula, health visitor, breastfeeding specialist etc will all be able to help you get on your way. If you’re not happy with the advice you have been given or feel you haven’t been helped, please try someone else. The next person you speak to might be the one with the short piece of advice that means you manage to breastfeed with ease, for as long as you and your baby want to. There is also a national breastfeeding helpline if you would rather talk to someone over the phone.
How to relieve sore nipples
If you are struggling with sore nipples, our Hydrogel Breast Pads will provide instant relief and help to create the perfect environment for your skin to heal quickly and comfortably, allowing you to get back on your breastfeeding journey and spending time with your newborn, not thinking about soothing your sore nipples. Available from the website, or on Amazon Prime for super quick delivery. Do not use the Hydrogel Breast Pads with thrush as they can make the condition worse. Signs of thrush include but are not limited to: Red, swollen nipple area, stabbing pain within the breast or nipple that stays after a feed, severely cracked skin, shiny skin, itchy or flaky nipples. You can read the NHS page about nipple thrush here. You can protect your nipples with our wonderful nipple balm. It’s made from 100% natural ingredients and is vegan friendly.
We wish you well on your feeding journey, breastfeeding is a wonderful, special time with huge benefits for both mum and baby and the World Health Organisation recommends that babies are breastfed exclusively for the first six months.
