Lactation Tips for Managing Nipple Pain During Breastfeeding

Let’s be real—breastfeeding can be beautiful, but it can also hurt. A lot. One of the biggest issues new moms talk about is nipple pain during breastfeeding. It’s more common than people think, and you shouldn’t feel alone if you’re going through it.

Whether you’re a first-time mom or nursing your third baby, sore nipples can make the whole experience feel frustrating and even discouraging. The good news? There are ways to ease the pain and protect your nipples while continuing to feed your baby.

This guide shares honest, realistic lactation tips, including practical lactation advice, what to look for when choosing a nipple cream, and how to support healing if you’re dealing with damage or infection.

What Causes Nipple Pain When Breastfeeding?

There’s no single answer because a few different things could be going on. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as the baby not latching properly. That’s probably the most common reason. A shallow latch means the baby is putting pressure directly on the nipple instead of drawing in the whole areola. Over time, this can lead to cracks, bleeding, or just raw pain.

Other causes might include:
• Dryness or cracked skin from frequent feeding or cleaning
• Friction from tight clothing or nursing pads
• Thrush (yeast infections) in the baby’s mouth, which can transfer to the nipple
• Bacterial infections, which require medical treatment
• Improper breast pump use

Every mother’s body responds differently, so it’s important to figure out what’s going on in your specific case.

Tips to Manage and Relieve Nipple Pain

Here are some of the most helpful strategies I’ve learned from personal experience, other moms, and certified lactation consultants. Try what works best for you.

1. Work on the Baby’s Latch

One of the first things to check is how your baby latches during each feed. I know everyone talks about this, but there’s a reason why. An incorrect latch puts way too much stress on your nipple and makes healing almost impossible if the problem keeps repeating.

A good latch usually feels more like gentle pulling—not sharp pain. Your baby’s mouth should be wide open, with lips flared out. Most of the areola (not just the nipple) should be inside the baby’s mouth.

If you’re unsure whether the latch is right, reach out to a lactation consultant. Even a 30-minute session can make a world of difference.

2. Use a Nipple Cream (Early and Often)

Don’t wait until your nipples are cracked or bleeding. Start using a nipple cream from the beginning, even as a preventive step. It helps lock in moisture and acts as a barrier against friction and saliva.

Look for creams that are:
• Made with natural ingredients (lanolin is a classic, but there are vegan options too)
• Safe for the baby (so you don’t have to wipe it off)
• Gentle but offer antibacterial or bactericidal effects

Some moms swear by coconut oil, while others like specialized creams designed for nursing mothers. The important thing is to use something consistently to keep your skin soft and protected.

3. Let Your Nipples Breathe

After nursing, let your nipples air dry for a bit instead of covering them right away. It sounds too simple, but it helps a lot. Constant moisture from breastmilk or pads can lead to irritation or even infection.

If you do wear nursing pads, make sure you change them often—especially if they feel damp. Wet fabric rubbing against sore skin is just asking for more pain.

4. Know About Montgomery Glands

Ever noticed those little bumps around your areola? They’re called Montgomery glands, and they serve a purpose. These glands naturally produce an oily substance that keeps your nipples moisturized and protected.

Some soaps or body washes can strip this natural oil away, so try to keep things gentle when you clean. You really don’t need to scrub your nipples—just rinse with warm water and pat dry.

5. Try Different Feeding Positions

A simple change in position can make a surprising difference. If one spot on your nipple is sore, switching up how the baby nurses can take the pressure off.

Some positions to try:
• Side-lying (great for nighttime feeds)
• Football hold (helps with deep latch and control)
• Laid-back position, where gravity helps your baby latch better

Experiment with different positions to see what works best for you and your baby.

6. Warm and Cold Therapy

Before a feed, using a warm compress can help with milk flow, making the let-down quicker and easing any tension in the breast. After feeding, apply something cold (like a chilled gel pack or even a cool washcloth) to reduce swelling and pain.

Some moms even use cold cabbage leaves. It sounds odd, but it can actually feel pretty soothing when your breasts are engorged.

7. Take a Break if Needed

It’s totally okay to pump and bottle-feed for a short time if things are really painful. Just make sure your pump is adjusted properly—poor suction settings or the wrong flange size can cause even more damage.

Use this break to focus on healing and continue applying nipple cream several times a day. You can also do saltwater soaks or apply breast milk (yes, your own milk!) to help soothe the area.

8. Watch for Signs of Infection

Sometimes, nipple pain during breastfeeding is more than just irritation. If the pain gets worse, or you notice red streaks, pus, or swelling, it could mean a bacterial infection. Burning pain could also point to thrush.

Signs to watch:
• Persistent sharp pain
• Itching or shiny skin
• Redness, warmth, or swelling
• Discharge or bleeding that doesn’t improve

If anything feels off, check in with your OB or a lactation specialist. Infections won’t go away on their own—you’ll likely need medication.

9. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

It might not sound directly related, but your skin health (including your nipples) is affected by your diet and hydration levels. Drink water throughout the day, and try to eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, D, and omega-3 fatty acids. These help keep your skin resilient and improve your overall recovery.

10. Be Gentle With Yourself

You’re doing your best, even if it doesn’t feel like it some days. Nipple pain during breastfeeding can make you question everything, but hang in there. Most moms find that things get easier over time as your body adjusts and the baby gets better at feeding.

Every journey is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Final Thoughts

Breastfeeding isn’t always as “natural” as people make it out to be—it takes patience, support, and trial and error. If you’re dealing with sore nipples, cracked skin, or just plain discomfort, know that there are ways to ease the pain.

Using a good nipple cream, protecting the Montgomery glands, trying new positions, and keeping an eye out for infections are all part of a well-rounded plan to feel better. Follow these lactation tips, and you’ll be one step closer to making breastfeeding more comfortable and sustainable.

And always, always remember: asking for lactation advice doesn’t make you weak. It makes you wise.