How to Prevent Dry and Cracked Nipples While Breastfeeding

As common an experience as it is, breastfeeding should not hurt. Although the first few minutes of each session might be intense, and soreness may occur after a good feed, chronic or enduring pain - especially in the form of dry or cracked nipples - is not at all necessary. Luckily, a few simply steps can radically reduce the occurrence of dry or cracked nipples.

Instructions

1

Prior to feeding, express a little milk. This will assist the let-down reflex, softening the nipples and allowing your baby to latch on more gently and easily.

2

Have your baby latch on correctly - an improper latch is a main cause of sore, dry or cracked nipples. Your baby latches onto the areola, not just the nipple. If the nipple doesn't reach all the way into the mouth, massage the areola with your thumb and forefinger, and push it outwards.

3

Let your baby start feeding on the breast that is the least sore - a baby's sucking is at its strongest in the first few minutes. After the intensity has subsided, switch to the other side.

4

For each feeding, change your baby's position slightly, so that the pressure of the feeding is distributed evenly throughout the breast. Rotate different types of breast-feeding holds: the cradle hold, the Australian hold, the football hold, and so on.

5

Be careful not to let your baby fall asleep at the breast, or suck for comfort without a proper latch. In addition, don't pull the mouth away from the breast without first breaking the suction.

6

After each session, allow your nipples to air-dry. Leave some breast milk behind on the nipples - the milk includes natural skin softeners. To reduce pain, apply cool compresses. In-between feedings, use proper breast support like cotton bras that won't irritate the nipples. At the same time, avoid breast-feeding pads with plastic liners - they can incubate bacteria.