Has breastfeeding left you with cracked or bleeding nipples? Know how to deal with it

Being a new mom, breastfeeding the new-born is one of the most beautiful and fulfilling moments of life. Breastfeeding encourages bonding with the baby, right away. But bonding is not all, as often than not, a new mom might have to endure a few unpleasant challenges like cracks and sores with her nipples, once her little one has finished latching.

Treating these problems at its nascent stage might prevent her from any problem in future.

So, here’s what you need to know and do:  

What are the reasons?

• Latching position is incorrect

When the nipples along with the circle of dark skin around the it is not properly tucked inside the baby’s mouth.¹

• Baby is tongue-tied

When the baby is unable to open its mouth wide enough to take in a large portion of your breast in its mouth and an unusually thick and short skin is attached to the bottom of its mouth.

Know the solutions

• Ensure your nipples are towards the roof of the baby’s mouth, while breastfeeding.

• Consult a lactation specialist to get advice on breastfeeding positions in the initial

• Slowly massaging the freshly expressed milk helps healing the cracked nipples. Don’t forget to wash your hands before massaging and leaving it to dry naturally.

• Wash your nipples while taking a shower. Oil released from the small bumps of your breasts will keep your nipples moist³.

• Wash the breasts with warm water, after each feed to soothe the sore or cracked nipples.

• Use ointment specifically designed for lactating mothers to heal the wounds.

• Keep changing the nursing pads, as they can easily become damp.  

• Use lanolin-based creams or coconut oil to keep the nipples soft and moist.

• Wear nursing bras made out of breathable material.

• Allow your baby to come off latching naturally

To conclude: Remembercracked, sored, bleeding or pained nipples are common signs observed amongst breastfeeding moms. But, if you still have concerns, consult the doctor, immediately and don’t forget to enjoy every moment of it

Author Bio: Prapti Chauhan is a professor of Genetics in Bangalore. She has contributed to several online research papers. However, she passionately develops contents on pregnancy, childbirth, childcare and Stem Cell Banking and Cord Blood Therapy.