Why does my nipple hurt even with a good latch?

Understanding Nipple Pain Despite a Good Latch
Experiencing nipple pain while breastfeeding, even when you believe your baby has a good latch, can be both confusing and distressing. While a proper latch is crucial for a comfortable breastfeeding experience, several factors can contribute to nipple discomfort that may not be immediately apparent.
The Complexity of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often portrayed as a natural and instinctive process, yet it can come with its own set of challenges. A good latch is characterized by the baby taking a large mouthful of breast tissue, which should ideally prevent pinching and discomfort. However, even with this ideal scenario, pain can still occur due to various reasons.
Possible Causes of Nipple Pain
1. Nipple Fissures: One common issue is the presence of nipple fissures or cracks. These can develop even when the latch appears correct, often due to the friction of the baby’s mouth against the nipple. This can lead to sharp pain during and after feeding.
2. Clogged Milk Ducts: Another potential cause of pain is clogged milk ducts. This condition can create localized discomfort and may be mistaken for nipple pain. It often occurs when milk is not fully drained from the breast, leading to swelling and tenderness.
3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menstruation or postpartum, can also contribute to breast and nipple sensitivity. The hormonal changes can cause breast tissue to swell, leading to discomfort.
4. Inverted or Flat Nipples: For some individuals, anatomical variations such as inverted or flat nipples can complicate the breastfeeding experience. Even with a good latch, these conditions may lead to increased friction and pain.
5. Sensitivity and Irritation: Skin sensitivity can also play a role. Factors such as dry skin, allergic reactions to soaps or creams, or even the baby’s saliva can irritate the nipple area, causing pain despite a proper latch.
When to Seek Help
If nipple pain persists, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional or a lactation consultant. They can provide personalized advice and check for underlying issues that may not be immediately visible. Addressing nipple pain early can help ensure a more comfortable breastfeeding journey for both mother and baby.
Conclusion
In summary, while a good latch is fundamental to a successful breastfeeding experience, it is not the sole factor in preventing nipple pain. Understanding the various causes of discomfort can empower breastfeeding individuals to seek appropriate solutions and support, ensuring that this intimate experience remains as pleasant as possible.

When should I be worried about breast nipple pain?

In most cases, sore nipples are caused by hormonal changes from pregnancy or menstruation, allergies or friction from clothing. In rare cases, it can be a sign of a serious disease like breast cancer. Your healthcare provider should evaluate any pain that’s accompanied by discharge or lumps as soon as possible.

Can a baby have a good latch but it still hurts?

Initial latching pain/discomfort is normal. It should last less than 30 seconds in any feed and be gone completely in a few days just as the uterus afterpains are. Just as those uterus afterpains can be managed, so can the latch. Some mums will use painkillers, and some will use their labour breathing techniques.

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.

How long does it take for latching to stop hurting?

Although sore or tender nipples are common during the first few days of breastfeeding, it should improve. Normal soreness or pain usually occurs for about a minute when the baby first latches on to the breast. For minor discomfort, you can try home treatment.

What does a blocked milk duct feel like?

A plugged milk duct feels like a tender, sore lump or knot in the breast. It happens when a milk duct does not drain properly. Pressure builds up behind the plugged duct, and the tissue around it gets irritated. This usually happens in one breast at a time.

Why are my nipples sore even with a good latch?

If your baby is properly positioned and attached at the breast during feeds and your nipples are still sore, ask your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding supporter for help. There may be an underlying problem, such as an infection like thrush.

Why do I have intense pain when latching?

When babies are latched on wrong, it can hurt or feel like a pinch each time your baby sucks. Over time, this can lead to painful, sore, cracked nipples. If you have pain during breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant to make sure your baby is properly latched or that something else isn’t going on.

How long is too long for nipple pain?

Nipple pain is common in the early days of breastfeeding. This is because your nipples are not used to breastfeeding. The pain lasts for a short time, usually around 1 week. Soreness that continues throughout the breastfeed, or lasts for more than 1 week of breastfeeding, is not normal.

Should I stop breastfeeding if my nipples are sore?

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.

When does latching pain go away?

Although it may be normal to feel some nipple tenderness in the first few days of nursing, especially during the first 30 to 60 seconds after your baby has latched on, it’s not normal to have prolonged soreness beyond the first week.