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  1. Colic
  2. Constipation
  3. Mastitis
  4. Milk supply
  5. Reflux
  6. Sore nipples
  7. Thrush
  8. Tongue-tie

Sore nipples

When you first start breastfeeding, you may have sore or sensitive nipples.

This is very common in the first week of breastfeeding, and is usually because your baby is not latching on (attached) properly.

If you do have nipple pain, speak to your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist as soon as possible.

What causes sore nipples?

The most common cause of nipple pain is when your baby does not latch on properly.

It's important to correct this as soon as possible – ask your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist for help, they can show you how your baby needs to be positioned when feeding.

Breast milk is created on a supply and demand system, so the less you feed the less you produce.

With help, feeding should quickly become comfortable again. If breastfeeding is very painful, try expressing your breast milk to keep up your supply.

Other possible causes for sore nipples

Tongue-tie can make it harder for your baby to breastfeed by preventing them from latching on properly, which can then lead to sore or cracked nipples.

Thrush (candida) is an infection that can occur when your nipples become cracked or damaged.

Important

Get help early if your nipples are cracked or bleeding, as this increases your risk of getting an infection in your nipple.

Tips for soothing sore nipples

Here are some tips you can try to help soothe sore nipples from breastfeeding:

  • after each feed, let your nipples dry before getting dressed
  • change your breast pads after every feed if you’re using them
  • try not to shorten feeds – this will not ease the pain and may reduce your milk supply
  • avoid using soap, as this can dry out your skin
  • wear cotton, non-underwired bras so air can circulate
  • avoid using nipple shields and breast shells – these will not improve your baby's attachment to the breast

These videos may also be useful:

Breastfeeding Friend from Start for Life

The Breastfeeding Friend, a digital tool from Start for Life, has lots of useful information and expert advice to share with you – and because it's a digital tool, you can access it 24/7.

Help and support

For confidential breastfeeding information and support, call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212.

Lines are open 9:30am to 9:30pm every day.