Even though it’s best for your baby and healthy in many ways for you as well, breastfeeding can be tough at times. One of the many challenges breastfeeding mothers go through is sore nipples, often caused when baby isn’t properly latched on. While this isn’t a problem which should stop you from breastfeeding, it is painful and uncomfortable.

The good news is that sore nipples can usually be prevented. As a matter of fact, it’s actually easier to take these preventative measures than to “cure” sore nipples:

1. Breastfeed often. Not breastfeeding often enough can cause engorgement, which makes it difficult for your baby to latch on.
2. Avoid plastic lined bra pads.
3. Make sure baby is latched on and suckling correctly. If baby’s feeding is painful for you, it may mean that she’s not latched on correctly. In addition to being painful for you, this is also unsatisfying for baby, since she can’t get as much milk as she wants. Use your finger between her gums to detach her, and then offer her the breast again.
4. Wash your breasts, and especially your nipples, every day. Use warm water, and avoid using soap or lotion on your nipples, especially if they contain alcohol.
5. Change nursing positions. If baby is having a hard time latching on from one position, try a different one. There are several ways you can hold your baby to allow her to breastfeed.
6. Express breast milk until you experience a let down reflex. You’ll know you’ve experienced a let down reflex because you’ll feel a tingling in your nipples. After you’ve experienced the let down reflex, your breast milk will flow more freely, and baby won’t have to suck as hard.
7. Let your nipples air dry after feedings, and let a little milk dry on your nipples. Believe it or not, it helps.

If you’re doing all these things and find your nipples are getting sore anyway, you can try applying an ice compress before breast feeding. Whatever you do, don’t limit baby’s time breastfeeding. Not only does this keep her from getting the nourishment she needs, but it can also make the problem worse for you. See a doctor or, better yet, a lactation coach if you continue to have problems breastfeeding.

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