Nipple Care

Nipple care is important when breastfeeding. You many experience some soreness in the beginning of breastfeeding. If the pain continues, then it is usually due to an improper latch or positioning. Below are some issues that may arise while breastfeeding. If you have any problem that is considered worrisome, then please contact your doctor. Do not let the problem get worse.

Nipple Cracks

It is important to use a nipple cream to help with any pain or nipple cracks. Nipple cracks are caused by improper positioning/latching or traumatic removal from the breast after feeding. Dry tissue can also cause your nipples to be cracked. Always clean your breast after each feeding and apply nipple cream if you start to feel discomfort.

Engorgement

Breast engorgement is when the breast becomes full, heavy and overfills with milk, blood and other fluids. This usually happens 3 to 4 days postpartum but can happen at any time while you are breastfeeding, especially if feeding patterns have changed. Breast engorgement can be severe and happens more often if the baby is not feeding correctly. Some women experience a throbbing sensation or discomfort with milk let-down (when milk is expressed). The swelling usually will go away or lessen in 24-48 hours. 

Best way to eliminate breast engorgement
  • Breastfeed often or pump often
  • Massage breast
  • Apply cold compresses to breast - this triggers the blood vessels to constrict and helps with the swelling

Blocked Ducts

This is when your milk ducts get clogged. It feels like you have pea-sized lumps under the skin and it is tender/sore to touch. Blocked ducts are caused by changing the frequency of feedings, abundant supply of milk, wearing a tight bra that puts pressure on a duct, and/or not nursing the baby correctly.

Best way to treat clogged ducts
  • Warm showers or compresses to affected area
  • Frequent feeding
  • Hand express or gently pump after feeding to take all milk out
  • Massage the affected area toward nipple while nursing
  • Place baby in a position where the baby is facing the blockage, allowing the suction to be maximized toward that area

Mastitis

When the blocked ducts gets so severe and nothing is helping, you may have mastitis. Mastitis is a breast infection, though your milk is NOT infected. It’s the tissue surrounding the blockage that is infected. This needs immediate medical attention. 

Symptoms:
  • Red, very sore hard area where block is located
  • Red streaking from the affected area
  • Fever and chills
  • Flu-like symptoms

Treatment for Mastitis
  • Antibiotics (finish the whole prescription)
  • Nursing frequently
  • Warm compresses around affected area
  • Massaging while nursing
  • Cold compresses after feeding
  • Drink a lot of fluids
  • Get plenty of sleep