Should I pump with cracked nipples?

Should You Pump with Cracked Nipples?
Pumping breast milk can be a vital part of feeding your baby, but when faced with cracked nipples, many mothers wonder if it’s safe or advisable to continue. Cracked nipples are a common issue during breastfeeding and can lead to significant discomfort. Understanding the implications of pumping with this condition is crucial for both your health and your baby’s nutrition.
Understanding Cracked Nipples
Cracked nipples often occur due to improper latch during breastfeeding, excessive friction from pumping, or even infections. They can be painful and may lead to bleeding, which raises concerns about the safety of pumping. While pumping itself can exacerbate the pain, it is essential to assess the severity of the cracks and the overall condition of your nipples before making a decision.
Is It Safe to Pump?
Yes, you can pump with cracked nipples, but caution is advised. If the cracks are minor and not bleeding, many mothers find that they can continue pumping with some adjustments. However, if the cracks are severe or bleeding, it may be best to pause pumping until healing occurs. Continuing to pump in such cases can lead to further irritation and prolong the healing process.
Managing Pain and Discomfort
If you choose to pump despite having cracked nipples, there are several strategies to minimize discomfort:
1. Adjust Pump Settings: Ensure that the suction level is not too high, as excessive suction can worsen the pain and damage to the nipples.

2. Use Nipple Creams: Applying lanolin or other nipple creams before and after pumping can provide a protective barrier and promote healing.
3. Consider Pumping Techniques: Experiment with different flanges or pumping techniques that may reduce friction and pressure on the nipples.
4. Take Breaks: If pumping becomes too painful, take breaks and allow your nipples to rest. This can help prevent further damage.
Consulting a Professional
If you experience persistent pain or if the cracks do not improve, it is advisable to consult a lactation consultant or healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest alternative feeding methods or treatments to help you heal.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is possible to pump with cracked nipples, it is essential to listen to your body and prioritize healing. Adjusting your pumping technique, using protective creams, and consulting with professionals can help manage discomfort and ensure that both you and your baby continue to thrive during this challenging time.

Can breastfeeding hurt even with a good latch?

It may look like your baby is well latched from the outside but your nipple may still be getting pinched. If you have tried to improve the positioning and latch but you still feel intense pain, seek help. Some discomfort when latching in the early days is common as you and your baby are learning.

Is it better to pump with cracked nipples?

If your sore nipples are causing you so much discomfort that you feel like you need to take a break from breastfeeding, don’t worry! You can still use a breast pump to express your milk. This will give your nipples a rest, while allowing you to continue to give your baby all the benefits breastmilk can provide.

Should I wear a bra with cracked nipples?

Take your bra off while at home and/or wear loose, comfortable clothing. Breast shells can be worn over the nipple and inside the bra to prevent clothing from rubbing an injured nipple and to promote air circulation and healing. Use lanolin and preferably Aquaphor. Treat thrush when it occurs.

How long do cracked nipples take to heal when pumping?

After correcting latching and starting a healing regimen, nipples typically heal in 2-3 days, sometimes even 1-2 days.

How to get a deeper latch?

With your baby’s head tilted back and chin up, lift him or her to touch your nipple. The nipple should rest just above the baby’s upper lip. Wait for your baby to open very wide, then “scoop” the breast by placing the lower jaw on first. Now tip your baby’s head forward and place the upper jaw well behind your nipple.

Can cracked nipples cause low milk supply?

If it gets worse, your nipples may bleed or develop sores or scabbing. If you become reluctant to nurse or pump because of the pain, you may develop engorgement or mastitis, and the condition may affect your milk supply.

What is the fastest way to heal cracked nipples?

How to treat sore nipples. Nipples can be air dried or kept moist using a few drops of expressed milk. To this date, there isn’t satisfactory evidence than any other treatment is as effective in helping nipples heal, including purified lanolin and vaseline (Dennis et al., 2014). If using creams, apply after feeds.

Should you let cracked nipples air dry?

Breast milk contains natural skin softeners and antibodies to fight infection. This can help heal nipples and keep them healthy. Let your nipples air-dry after each feeding.

Should you feed through cracked nipples?

If you can, continue breastfeeding. If it’s too painful, you may need to take your baby off the breast for 12 to 24 hours, rest your nipple and feed your baby expressed breast milk. It might be less painful if you use a nipple shield.

How to treat sore nipples while pumping?

1-2 drops of vegetable cooking oil (olive, canola, corn etc.) may be used to lubricate the nipple just before pumping. After every pumping, apply modified lanolin cream or ointment, such as Lansinoh or Tender Care Lanolin. Apply cool moist cloths to your breasts after pumping.