Breastfeeding or not, I’m sure a lot of women have experienced sore nipples at some point of time in their lives. While there are different ways of treating sore nipples, our focus in this article would be to explore the top 9 home remedies for sore nipples.
Sore nipples are very common during ovulation or breastfeeding. But there’s a stigma attached to discussing this issue like it is with most of the other reproductive health problems.
But what you need to know is that there’s nothing to be ashamed about. Nipples are very sensitive areas and need proper care just like any other part of the body.
Motherhood is not always a piece of cake. It comes with its own share of struggles and difficulties. Your breast is one more thing to add on to the list of things you struggle with.
Throughout the period of motherhood, breasts can be tender and latching problems with the baby don’t really help the cause sore nipples and breast pain.
However, if you have the right knowledge of why this pain is happening and what are the measures to reduce the soreness you can fare through this easily.
What are sore nipples?
Sore nipples usually happen to women as a result of a change in hormones right before you are about to start your periods. But not all women experience this symptom.
However, most mothers experience sore nipples during the nursing phase because of the below-mentioned reasons.
-
Latching issues-
Breastfeeding is a learned skill both for the mother and the baby. You get better at it with practice and coordination. Initial latching issues can be because of uncomfortable positioning or a case of a tongue-tie in babies.
Try different breastfeeding positions that are comfortable for you and your baby. Do not end the feeding session too early as this can cause a slip in the latch which will be painful for you.
If your baby is not able to release the latch then break it yourself by putting a finger in the mouth of your baby. Do not force pull your nipples away.
-
Inverted nipples-
Though is not a very serious health concern, it can still be very discomforting and make breastfeeding difficult at times. An inverted nipple is wherein your nipples are retracted into the breast tissue instead of protruding outwards.
Manual stimulation of the breasts to produce milk can make breastfeeding easier in such cases. You can also try using nipple shields during the feeding to draw out the nipples. But, it is best to speak with your lactation counselor to identify the best possible ways to feed with inverted nipples.
-
Cracked nipples-
This can happen very often either because of a shallow latch, dryness around your nipple areas, or the use of breast pumps. There are a lot of ways discussed down below to treat and prevent sore nipples. continue reading to know more about it.
Home remedies for sore nipples
-
Apple cider vinegar-
Mixing a tablespoon of this with water and dabbing it over the nipples and areola after a breastfeeding session will prevent sore nipples due to bacterial growth or infection.
Round up this process by applying coconut oil. This will prevent your nipples from getting dry and cracked.
-
Tea Tree Oil
Mixing tea tree oil with lukewarm water and applying it to your nipples with the help of a cotton ball is also an effective home remedy for sore nipples. Remember to rinse it off after it gets dry.
-
Apply breast milk-
Breast milk has anti-bacterial as well as healing properties for sore nipples. Apply a few drops of the breast milk before and after each session and let it air dry. Repeat this process for a few days until the soreness subsides
-
Ice cubes-
This form of cold compression is very effective and inexpensive. Press an ice cube gently against your nipples for 5-6 minutes to get relief. Do this home remedy for sore nipples regularly for after relief.
-
Aloe Vera-
It is known to have many healing properties and is used in treating various skin problems as well. It is a great home remedy for sore nipples.
Apply a good amount of aloe Vera gel to your nipples. Use a natural source of gel for this purpose. Remember to wash your nipples before feeding your baby
-
Tea bags-
Take a chamomile tea bag and dip it in warm water for a few minutes. Take it out and let it come down to a normal temperature. Squeeze out the excess water and place the bags on your nipples. This will give you a soothing effect.
-
Hot oil compresses-
The oil keeps your nipples moisturized and prevents dryness. Take any oil of your choice, warm it up and apply 3-4 times a day. Be sure to wash it off before feeding your baby.
-
Vitamin C-
Increasing your intake of vitamin c can help prevent sore nipples.
-
Hygiene-
Hygiene is a must to prevent sore nipples. Wear clean, loose, and comfortable clothes. Do not wear bras that are too tight. Wear nursing and maternity bras for greater comfort.
-
Soaps or Chemicals-
Do not use any soaps or chemicals for washing your nipples. Only use lukewarm water to rinse and let them air dry. Also do not use any beauty products like powder, creams, etc on your nipples. Use natural moisturizers for massaging your nipples as listed above.
Should you breastfeed with sore nipples?
It is important to continue feeding your baby if you are experiencing nipple pain or sore nipples. first, start with the nipples that are less sore and less in pain. This will prevent the baby from sucking too hard on the second nipple.
If putting your baby to your breast hurts too much then try using a hand expression or a breast pump. Since breast milk is itself a healing agent, chances are that your nipples will heal automatically with your milk’s antibacterial properties while breastfeeding.
You can also use different home remedies to give you some relief while continuing your breastfeeding journey. but, remember to clean your nipples properly with water before feeding your baby again.
Key Takeaway
Breastfeeding is rewarding and special for all mothers. It creates a beautiful bond between moms and their babies. However, this experience becomes even more blissful when the discomforts are less.
Nipple soreness can definitely be prevented and cured but the chances are that breastfeeding moms will still experience it to some degree. At such times the top 9 home remedies for sore nipples will come to your rescue.
And, ultimately knowing what’s best for you and your baby and working out a solution for the best breastfeeding experience will keep you and your baby healthy!
Please let us know in the comments below if you have any special home remedies for sore nipples that did wonders for you. Your story might help a woman out there!
Wishing you all a happy and healthy motherhood!
