Cracked nipples: Home Doctor & Self Therapy

Many new mothers develop sore, tender nipples during the first few weeks of breast-feeding. One or both nipples may be painful, red, and ridged and may bleed if the skin cracks. Cracked nipples tend to occur when a baby is not positioned properly at the breast and sucks only on the end of the nipple. Women with flat or inverted nipples are susceptible. Sometimes, cracked nipples are due to a yeast infection.

See your doctor first

Arrange to see your doctor promptly if:
● Your nipples are red and shiny and have a white deposit on them
● There is a red, tender area on your breast

What you can do yourself

Cracked nipples should heal once you and your baby develop a good breast-feeding technique.
● Check the way you hold your baby at the breast. Using a new hold may help to reduce pain (see PRACTICAL TIPS, below).
● Feed your baby on demand and offer the nipple that is least sore first, when your baby is sucking hardest. Breathe deeply as your baby latches on: a sore nipple is most painful for the first few sucks.
● For flat or inverted nipples, use a lightweight plastic nipple shield to help pull out your nipples.
● Try using a lanolin ointment to help heal deep, painful cracks (see DRUG REMEDIES, below).
● After each feeding, wash your nipples with warm water and dry them carefully. Don’t use plastic-backed breast pads; they trap moisture. Expose your breasts to the air whenever you can.
● If your nipples are very painful, take acetaminophen (see DRUG REMEDIES, below).

PRACTICAL TIPS

Breast-feeding holds for sore nipples Holding your baby higher and well supported will reduce painful tugging on a sore nipple.
● Cradle your baby’s head high in the crook of the arm with the stomach against your own and the mouth directly facing your nipple. Tuck your baby’s arm around your body and keep his or her bottom well supported. Make sure your baby takes the nipple and the darker area around it (areola) into the mouth.
● As an occasional alternative, try the football hold to even out sucking on sore nipples. Using a pillow for support, tuck your baby under your arm with the feet toward your back (like a football player).
Maintaining good support Hold your baby with his or her front against your body, and support him or her securely.

DRUG REMEDIES

Lanolin ointment formulated for breast-feeding mothers will soothe sore nipples. Rub in a little to protect the skin and help cracks to heal. You don’t need to wipe it off before feedings.
Acetaminophen will reduce discomfort and help you relax while your baby feeds. Take a dose 30 minutes before a feeding.