Breastfeeding is a powerful way to nourish and bond with your baby, but if you’re dealing with sore nipples, it can also feel painful, frustrating, and discouraging.
The good news? Nipple pain is incredibly common in the early days of breastfeeding, and in most cases, it’s preventable and treatable. With a little knowledge, some gentle care, and the right support, sore nipples don’t have to derail your breastfeeding journey.
In this guide, we’ll cover what causes sore nipples, how to soothe and protect them, and when to seek help - plus the best products and techniques for healing quickly.
Are Sore Nipples Normal?
Soreness and tenderness in the first few days of breastfeeding is common - your nipples are adjusting to frequent use and lots of contact.
However, cracked, bleeding, or persistently painful nipples should be addressed as it’s usually a symptom of an underlying issue, often related to how your baby is latching.
Common Causes of Sore Nipples
1. Shallow Latch
If your baby isn’t taking in enough of the areola, they may be sucking only on the nipple, causing friction and damage.
2. Incorrect Positioning
Even a good latch can become painful if baby isn’t positioned well. Strain on your back, arms, or baby’s neck can impact feeding.
3. Frequent Feeds in Early Days
Cluster feeding, while normal, can lead to sore or sensitive nipples due to the frequency of feeding.
4. Tongue-Tie or Oral Restrictions
Some babies have tongue-tie or high palates that affect latch and nipple compression.
5. Dermatitis or Infection
If pain is burning, persistent, or deep in the breast, and your nipples appear shiny, white, or flaky, it may be a dermatitis, vasospasm, or an infection.
How to Soothe Sore Nipples
1. Correct the Latch
The most effective way to stop nipple pain is to fix the root cause - usually a shallow latch. Baby should take a big mouthful of breast, not just the nipple.
Tips:
- Wait for baby’s mouth to open wide like a yawn
- Hold baby tummy-to-tummy with their nose level to your nipple
- Let their chin come onto the breast before letting them tilt their head backwards, ensuring they take a mouthful of breast tissue
- Try different positions (side-lying, rugby hold, laid-back)
- Break suction gently with your finger and try again if it’s painful
If you’re unsure, ask your midwife, lactation consultant, or a breastfeeding counselor to observe a feed so they can support you in your journey.
2. Use Lansinoh® HPA® Lanolin Nipple Cream
Lansinoh’s award-winning nipple cream is:
- 100% natural and hypoallergenic
- Clinically proven to soothe and protect sore nipples
- No need to wipe off before feeds
Apply a small amount before and after every feed to help soothe and protect.
3. Try Hydrogel Pads for Instant Cooling Relief
Lansinoh® Soothies Cooling Gel Pads provide:
- Soothing cooling relief from soreness, cracking, or dryness
- A protective, moist healing environment
Great for use between feeds when you need instant comfort.
4. Express a Few Drops of Breast Milk
Breast milk has natural antibacterial properties. Express a little into Silver Nipple Cups and apply to the nipple to help heal. Ideally, use the silver cups intermittently throughout the day/night and not continuously.
5. Avoid Harsh Soaps or Chemicals
Clean your breasts with warm water only. Soap can strip natural oils and worsen dryness. Avoid scented lotions or shower gels on the nipple area.
6. Wear Breathable, Soft Fabrics
- Choose cotton nursing bras with no underwire
- Go braless when possible to allow airflow
- Change damp nursing pads frequently to prevent irritation
Shop Lansinoh Disposable Breast Pads
When to Seek Help
Speak to your GP, health visitor, or breastfeeding specialist if:
- Pain continues beyond the first few seconds of a feed
- Cracks or bleeding worsen
- Your baby seems unsettled or isn’t gaining weight
- You suspect dermatitis or an infection
- Breastfeeding feels like something you dread
You’re not alone, and help is available. Early support can help you continue feeding in comfort and confidence.
Can You Continue Breastfeeding with Sore Nipples?
Yes, but we recommend trying to correct the cause while doing so; otherwise, continued feeding on a poor latch could worsen the problem.
Temporarily using nipple shields (under support and supervision) or expressing and giving via a cup/tube or a bottle for 24–48 hours can help give nipples a chance to heal - just be sure to maintain your feeding rhythm to protect supply.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Apply nipple cream after every feed, don’t wait for damage to appear
- Check latch and positioning at every feed and if worried reach out to a health professional sooner rather than later
- Use hydrogel pads between feeds for cooling relief
- Short-term pain and discomfort is normal, ask for help if it continues to hurt
Sore nipples don’t mean breastfeeding isn’t for you; they just mean you and your baby need a little support while you both learn.
