Nipple pain is one of the most common reasons people feel discouraged in the early days of breastfeeding—but it doesn’t have to be part of your story. While some tenderness can be normal in the first week or two as your body adjusts, ongoing pain is usually a signal that something needs attention. The good news? Most nipple pain can be prevented with a few simple strategies.
Why Nipple Pain Happens
Nipple pain is most commonly related to how your baby is latching and transferring milk. When milk removal is effective, your nipples stay healthy. When it’s not, friction, compression, or prolonged fullness can lead to soreness, cracks, or even infections. By understanding the root causes, you can get ahead of the discomfort before it spirals.
Tips to Prevent Nipple Pain
Prioritize a Deep Latch
A shallow latch is the number one cause of nipple pain. Bring your baby close, wait for their mouth to open wide, and guide them so more of the areola—not just the nipple—goes into their mouth. Leaning back and bringing your baby to you will help a ton! Gravity will help your baby get a deeper latch.
Positioning is Key!
Different breastfeeding positions allow for better angles and deeper latching. Experiment with cross-cradle, football, or side-lying until you find what feels best. A small adjustment can make a big difference. The Brest Friend pillow and the Lolo Baby can be great options to get your baby up high at breast level...in the proper position for a deep latch.
Here is an excellent Video on proper Attachment from the
First Droplets Website!
Keep Skin-to-Skin Frequent
Skin-to-skin time helps your baby practice rooting reflexes naturally, often leading to calmer feeds and a better latch. It also supports your milk supply, which helps milk flow more easily and reduces nipple stress.
Offer the Breast Often
Waiting until your baby is crying makes latching harder and more forceful, which can hurt. Feeding at early hunger cues (stirring, hand-to-mouth, rooting) helps your baby attach more gently and effectively.
Air Dry After Feeds
Moisture trapped against the nipple can slow healing and cause irritation. Let your nipples dry for a few minutes after feeds, or gently pat with a soft cloth.
Support Milk Flow
If your breasts feel overly full or firm, soften the area before latching by hand expressing a little milk. This can make it easier for your baby to latch and reduce nipple strain.
When to Reach Out
If you have cracked, bleeding, or persistently sore nipples—or if the pain doesn’t ease after the first week or two—reach out for help. An IBCLC can assess your baby’s latch, oral anatomy, and your feeding routine to make tailored adjustments. Getting support early can prevent complications.
If you have perfected positioning and you still have pain....or you have shooting pains, itchiness, redness...that's usually a good time to reach out to your OB as well.
FAQ
Is nipple pain normal at first?
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Mild tenderness in the early days can be normal, but sharp, ongoing pain is a red flag that something needs adjustment.
Should I use nipple creams or silverettes?
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Creams or hydrogel pads may offer temporary relief, but they won’t fix the root cause. Silverettes seem to help many moms and get great reviews on easing the pain. If you have questions, IBCLC guidance can be extremely helpful to assess the entire picture.
Can pumping cause nipple pain?
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Yes—if flange size is off or suction is too high, pumping can irritate nipples. Ensuring the right fit makes a big difference. Putting coconut oil or nipple cream on the inside of the flange can help lessen the friction-helping with pain.
The Bottom Line
Breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt. With the right latch, positioning, and support, nipple pain is usually preventable. If you’re struggling, you don’t have to push through—help is available, and small changes can make feeding more comfortable for you and your baby.
