Is vaseline safe to use on nipples while breastfeeding?

Is Vaseline Safe to Use on Nipples While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether Vaseline is safe for use on nipples during breastfeeding is a topic of considerable debate among new mothers and healthcare professionals. While some may consider it a quick fix for sore or cracked nipples, the consensus among experts leans towards caution.
Potential Risks of Using Vaseline
Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is primarily a barrier ointment that can lock in moisture but also keeps out air. This characteristic can be problematic for healing skin, particularly in sensitive areas like the nipples. According to the Breastfeeding Network, Vaseline is deemed unsuitable for nipple care because it “keeps out air” and is “not safe for ingestion”. This is a significant concern since babies often ingest whatever is on the mother’s skin during breastfeeding.
Moreover, the use of Vaseline can lead to complications such as blocked ducts. Some mothers have reported that using Vaseline instead of more traditional nipple creams, like lanolin, has resulted in issues with milk flow. This is particularly concerning for mothers who are already struggling with breastfeeding challenges.
Alternatives to Vaseline
For mothers dealing with sore or cracked nipples, there are safer alternatives that are specifically designed for breastfeeding. Products containing lanolin are often recommended because they are safe for ingestion and promote healing without creating a barrier that traps moisture. Other natural options, such as coconut oil, have also gained popularity due to their moisturizing properties and safety for both mother and baby.
Conclusion
In summary, while Vaseline may seem like a convenient solution for nipple discomfort during breastfeeding, it is generally not recommended due to its potential risks, including hindering healing and causing issues with milk flow. Mothers are encouraged to consult with healthcare providers for safe and effective alternatives that support both their comfort and their baby’s health.

Can I use vaseline on my nipples when breastfeeding?

We recommend a non-irritating moisturizer to help your nipples heal. After each feed / pumping, apply Petrolatum (Vaseline, Aquaphor or generic equivalent) or Zinc Oxide to both nipples and wear a cotton bra. If the ointment is sticking to your clothes, you may want to cover it with gauze.

How often should I clean my breasts while breastfeeding?

While you don’t need to thoroughly clean your nipples after each and every feeding, it’s a good idea to at least give them a rinse a few times throughout the day. This helps to remove any traces of saliva and gives you a chance to add some unscented, baby-approved moisturizer.

How to fix a painful latch?

You’re in pain.
Gently break your baby’s suction to your breast by placing a clean finger in the corner of your baby’s mouth. Then try again to get your baby to latch on. To find out if your baby is sucking only on your nipple, check what your nipple looks like when it comes out of your baby’s mouth.

What can I put on my nipples while breastfeeding?

Purified lanolin may be applied to nipples, using a cotton bud, if they are sore. Always handle your breasts with clean hands. Causes of sore nipples can be related to any of the following: poor positioning of your baby.

What can I use to moisturize my nipples?

wearing softer materials. wearing a more supportive bra. using moisturizing creams, ointments, or nipple creams such as lanolin. using colloidal oatmeal, which may reduce dryness and inflammation.

How do you protect your nipples while breastfeeding?

How to Care for Your Nipples While Breastfeeding

1. Wash your hands with soap and water before each feeding.
2. Wear a clean bra with the right amount of support each day.
3. Avoid using soap or shampoo on your nipples.
4. After each feeding, put a few drops of breast milk on your nipples.

What can I put on sore nipples without breastfeeding?

Treatment

1. take pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
2. hold a warm, moist compress to your breasts.
3. use a lanolin ointment to prevent nipple cracking.

Can I apply Vaseline on my breast?

Can Vaseline help your breasts grow? There’s no clinical evidence that applying Vaseline to your breasts will increase their size or firmness. Rubbing the product on your chest each night will not cause them to grow.

What helps sore nipples while breastfeeding?

Relief measures:
Breastfeed more frequently. You can limit your breastfeeding time to ten minutes at each breast if your breasts are emptying well in that amount of time. Apply ice to the areola and nipple just before the baby latches on. Ensure that your nipples are dry.

How to heal cracked nipples during breastfeeding?

In addition to ensuring that you’re breastfeeding correctly, you can: Rub a small amount of your milk onto your fissures. The milk from your body has antibacterial properties that can moisturize nipple fissures and help cracks heal. Allow your nipples to air dry.