Sore Nipples
- Prevention and Treatment
Causes
- Shallow latch, tongue
thrusting, short frenulum, using a finger to make unnecessary airway
or the improper removal of baby
- Cracked nipples
can provide an entrance point for bacteria leading to mastitis
Prevention
- Use pump or hand
express to start flow of milk so that baby doesn't need to suck as
hard
- Mother should be
comfortable in arm chair with knees higher than hips using a foot stool
- Baby should be supported
on pillows with baby's tummy facing mother's tummy at breast level
- Encourage deep and
proper latch with infant held close to allow baby to focus on milk removal
rather than having to hold nipple in mouth
- Pull down on baby's
chin while latched to increase depth of latch or to pull out lower lip
- Alternate positions
with each feeding to reduce stress to same area of nipple
- Feed baby before
overly hungry
- Detach baby to release
suction by inserting clean finger over baby's gum
Nipple Care
- During daily shower
- rinse breasts with water; avoid soap or washcloth
- Optional bra should
be cotton; avoid constrictive tight material and underwires which may
lead to plugged ducts
- Cotton nursing pads
are preferable to pads with plastic liners which may lead to thrush
infection
Management
- Create a comfortable
environment using music, shoulder massage and relaxation techniques
- Hand express to
stimulate let down; massage breast while nursing
- Nurse on least sore
side first when infant is most hungry
- Express milk to
nipple and areola after feeding and allow to air dry
- Apply pea-sized
amount of 100% pure lanolin to nipple (contra-indicated if allergic
to wool) - do not wash off before next feeding
- May leave flaps
down on bra between feedings or breast shells may be worn to keep fabric
off sensitive tissue
- Seek advice from
a certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) if pain persists
© 2000 Sharon McLaughlin, RN, BSM, FACCE, IBCLC
434-589-8647 or 703-598-5213