Sore nipples are a problem that occurs especially at the beginning of feeding. Would you like to reduce the discomfort? Learn about effective ways to treat sore nipples.
Before you learn how to get rid of sore nipples, find out the possible causes of discomfort. First of all, the skin on the nipples is delicate, and during pregnancy the breasts become more sensitive. The newborn sucks at an intensity that your body may not be used to, which is why pain occurs. Discomfort often occurs because of the long feeding time. The pain should go away after a few weeks, but if it doesn’t, it may be a sign of your baby not latching on properly, your little one being impatient while feeding, or using the breast pump too often. Nipple pain can also be caused by ankyloglossia, which is a baby’s tongue frenulum that is too short.
It’s a good idea to apply your own milk to sore and cracked nipples – do this before and after feeding to speed up the healing process. The milk has an antibacterial and moisturising effect. Just spread a few drops on the nipple and areola and wait a few minutes. Do not wear a bra – access to air is very important for the injured skin.
In the fight against nipple pain you can also help with products from the pharmacy, where it is worth choosing soothing ointments. One of them is Bepanthen Baby, whose properties can benefit both the mother and the baby. The ointment is used in the child in order to protect against flare-ups, but it is also great for injured nipples. The composition of the product contains provitamin B5, which accelerates skin regeneration. The preparation is safe, because it does not contain fragrances, preservatives and dyes.
For irritated nipples you can also choose products recommended to fight this problem. They usually contain natural ingredients, so they are safe and you do not need to wash them off before feeding. In balms for cracked nipples you will find oils, for example, sunflower oil, which soothes irritation and retains water in the skin, preventing dryness. In some protective ointments for sore warts you will find jojoba oil, sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil. Thanks to these ingredients you will lubricate the cracked skin and protect it from irritation.
On the warts you can also use hydrogel pads, which relieve pain, soothe irritated skin and accelerate healing. Before application, it is worth putting them in the refrigerator. Thanks to this will work even more effectively and minimize the pain.
Taking care of your hygiene is very important when you are experiencing painful warts. But don’t wash them too often – twice a day is enough. Do not use soap, as it can dry out the skin. If your nipples are sore, do not use water. Replace it with an infusion of sage or calendula.
If your problem lasts a long time, check that your baby is latching on to the nipple properly. Your baby should be able to grasp the nipple with the areola around it. If the baby grips the nipple too shallowly, the milk will not flow and this will cause the baby to squeeze even harder. The baby must also be properly positioned – the head should form a single line with the body, and the legs should lie freely.
If you have the possibility, as often as possible resign from the bra. The skin, which has access to air, heals faster. If you want to wear a bra, opt for special shields. Thanks to them painful nipples will not rub against the clothing. You should also opt for nursing bras – they are made of breathable material, such as cotton. They use quick-drying fabrics, which wick away excess moisture.
