My Mummy's Milk

The Baby Show

The Baby Show

Latest Testimonials

  • Thank you, Lansinoh worked for my feet!
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  • I was at my wits end with cracked lips until I discovered Lansinoh Lanolin!
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  • "...I was thinking about stopping breastfeeding...tried Lansinoh on the off chance it would ease the pain and it did!"
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  • 'I just wanted to say a big thank you for your HPA Lanolin cream, it's amazing! Not only has it helped...'
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  • 'Just wanted to say thank you SO much for making Lansinoh Lanolin nipple cream-it's a miracle cream!...'
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Sore Nipples

lanolinBreastfeeding is a learnt skill for you and your baby, and may take a little getting used to. Breastfeeding should not hurt, although some mothers describe the initial sucks in the early days as tender.

If you experience sore nipples beyond a slight tenderness when your baby latches on, or if pain persists throughout the feed, you may need to make some adjustments so you can be comfortable and enjoy breastfeeding your baby.  In the meantime, Lansinoh HPA® Lanolin can help soothe and protect your nipples, and does NOT need to be removed before breastfeeding.

Uncomfortable positioning and attachment is the most frequent cause of sore nipples when breastfeeding.  Often any perceived problems with breastfeeding such as not enough milk, low weight gain, and baby suckling too long are also an indication of uncomfortable positioning and attachment.  You may find it useful to try out different breastfeeding positions to see which one works best for you both. 

 

downloadWhy not download our useful information sheet - How to avoid sore nipples →

 

Tips to help sore nipples heal:

  • Check positioning and attachment.  Your baby should take a big mouthful of breast, with his tongue under your nipple
  • Feeding frequently can help.  A new baby needs to feed 8-12 times in a 24 hour period.
  • Feed on the least sore side first, then when the milk is flowing, switch breasts.
  • Avoid breast pads with plastic backing, which keeps nipples wet.
  • Creams that need to be removed before breastfeeding should be avoided as extra rubbing may irritate nipple soreness.

Other causes of sore nipples in the early days

Engorgement

If your breasts are very full it may make it difficult for your baby to get a good attachment. Expressing a little milk before feeding, and feeding at least every two hours with a longer gap at night can help.
Engorgement may lead to temporarily flat or inverted nipples.

Tongue-tie

Tongue-ties can be treated, and it is advisable to consult a health professional.

Breaking suction

Removing your baby from your breast without breaking the suction may increase the likelihood of getting sore nipples. If you need to take your baby off the breast, break the suction first by putting your finger between his gums.

You may find it useful to watch our breastfeeding video, which includes hints and tips on latching on and how to successfully breastfeed your baby - a good technique can help to avoid the pain of sore nipples and make you more comfortable and relaxed. 

If you notice an inflammation of the breast then you may well have a plugged milk duct - read our guide to mastitis to find out more.

If you are struggling with breastfeeding, do get help from a breastfeeding counsellor or lactation consultant. Useful organisations:

National Childbirth Trust (NCT) Breastfeeding Line: 0870 444 8708
La Leche League: 0845 120 2918
Association of Breastfeeding Mothers: 08444 122 949