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What can I rub on sore nipples?

Understanding Sore Nipples
Sore nipples can be a distressing experience, affecting individuals for various reasons, including hormonal changes, breastfeeding, or friction from clothing. This condition is particularly common among pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can also occur in men and those experiencing hormonal fluctuations. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective treatment.
Common Causes of Sore Nipples
The causes of sore nipples are diverse. They can stem from friction, often due to tight clothing or vigorous physical activity, which can irritate the sensitive skin of the nipple. Breastfeeding is another frequent culprit; improper latching can lead to pain and soreness. Hormonal changes related to menstruation or pregnancy can also contribute to nipple sensitivity and discomfort.
Remedies for Sore Nipples
When it comes to alleviating the discomfort of sore nipples, several remedies can be effective:
1. Moisturizers and Creams: Applying a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer can help soothe irritated skin. Products specifically designed for breastfeeding mothers, such as lanolin cream, are particularly beneficial. These creams not only provide moisture but also create a protective barrier against further irritation.
2. Cold Compresses: Using a cold compress can reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing immediate relief from pain. This method is especially useful after breastfeeding sessions or when experiencing soreness due to friction.
3. Nipple Shields: For breastfeeding mothers, using nipple shields can help protect sore nipples during feeding. These shields create a barrier between the nipple and the baby, allowing for a more comfortable breastfeeding experience while the nipples heal.
4. Avoiding Irritants: It’s essential to identify and eliminate any potential irritants. This includes wearing loose-fitting clothing and avoiding harsh soaps or lotions that may exacerbate the sensitivity.
5. Natural Remedies: Some individuals find relief using natural oils, such as coconut oil or olive oil, which can moisturize and soothe the skin. However, it’s important to ensure that any product used is safe for the skin and does not cause further irritation.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While sore nipples are often benign, persistent pain or changes in the nipple’s appearance should not be ignored. Conditions such as infections or, in rare cases, more serious issues like cancer can manifest as nipple pain. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.
Conclusion
Sore nipples can be uncomfortable, but with the right care and attention, relief is often achievable. By understanding the causes and employing effective remedies, individuals can manage their symptoms and return to their daily activities with greater comfort. Always remember, if pain persists, seeking medical advice is crucial to rule out any serious conditions.

How to fix a painful latch?

Signs that baby isn’t latching properly
If you feel nipple pain while nursing, something’s not right. This means your baby is likely chewing on your nipple instead of gumming the areola. The fix: Unlatch (break the suction by putting your finger into the corner of her mouth), and try again.

Is it safe to put olive oil on baby’s nipples?

Olive oil can be a safe, accessible, and alternative choice for breastfeeding mothers in treating nipple pain and soreness, especially early in the breastfeeding period.

Is vaseline good for irritated nipples?

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.

What can I put on my nipples when sore?

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.

What is the best cream for sore nipples?

Compare Products

Score Product
83 Weleda Nipple Balm $26 List — Best Overall Nipple Cream
70 Honest Calm Your Nip Balm $15 List — Favorite Lanolin-free Balm
65 Lansinoh Lanolin $11 List — Best Heavy Duty Hydration on a Budget
61 Bamboobies Boobease $20 List — Best All-Organic Balm

What lotion can I put on my nipples?

Lanolin nipple creams are considered safe to use when breastfeeding. Lanolin is nontoxic and does not need to be wiped off before breastfeeding.

How do you get rid of irritated nipples?

What should I do to treat my sore nipples?

  1. Lanolin cream, or your own breastmilk, can keep your nipples hydrated.
  2. Wear a loose-fitting bra and clothes.
  3. Change nursing pads often to keep them clean and dry.
  4. Use only a mild soap and water to clean your breasts and nipples.
  5. Change positions each time you nurse.

How to cure sore nipples fast?

Other solutions for nipple pain during breastfeeding include lanolin ointment and cold compresses. Antibiotics are used if the pain is being caused by an infection like thrush or mastitis. A topical anti-inflammatory cream may help with inflammation and pain caused by an allergic reaction.

How do you treat irritated nipples?

How are nipple pain, itching and rashes treated?

  1. Topical steroid cream, to treat dermatitis or nipple blebs.
  2. Antibiotics, to treat subacute mastitis.
  3. Heat (breast warmers), to treat nipple vasospasm.

What soothes and protects sore cracked nipples?

When your nipples are sore, apply some of your own milk on your nipples. Your milk has healing properties to relieve soreness. Also, a small pea-sized portion of ultrapure modified lanolin, such as HPA® Lanolin, between clean fingertips and apply to the nipple and areola. Gently pat it on: do not rub it in.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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