Breastfeeding Pain: What is Normal and Tips for Relief

Terressa Patterson RN BSN MS IBCLC
In partnership with Dr. Brown's Company

Yes, there can be some mild pain or discomfort associated with breastfeeding, especially in the early days as your body and baby are adjusting. However, it is important to remember that while some discomfort is normal, breastfeeding should not be consistently painful. Here are a few common causes of discomfort or pain during breastfeeding and tips on how to manage them:

Nipple Soreness

It's very common to experience some nipple soreness in the first few days or weeks of breastfeeding. Your nipples are adjusting to frequent feeding, and the friction from your baby's latch can cause tenderness. The pain usually feels like a mild soreness or sensitivity, especially during the first few seconds when your baby first latches on.

What can help?

Proper latch: Ensuring your baby is latched on correctly is key to preventing ongoing pain. Your baby should have a wide mouth and take in not just the nipple but a good portion of the areola.

Use nipple cream: Applying nipple cream or using expressed breast milk to soothe your nipples after feeding can help soothe and heal.

Air drying: Letting your nipples air-dry after breastfeeding can also reduce irritation.

Change positions: Trying different breastfeeding positions might help ease discomfort and reduce pressure on sore spots.

Engorgement

Around days 2 to 5 after birth, your mature and more voluminous milk "comes in". During this time, your breasts may become very full, swollen, and even hard. This condition is known as normal engorgement, and it can be uncomfortable or even painful. Engorgement happens when your body is producing more milk than your baby needs, and the breasts become overly full.

What can help?

Frequent feeding: Nursing your baby frequently helps relieve engorgement by emptying your breasts. Aim to feed every 2-3 hours.

Cold compresses: Applying cold packs to your breasts after feeding can help reduce swelling.

Warmth before feeding: Using a warm compress or taking a warm shower before nursing can help soften your breasts and encourage milk flow.

Gentle massage: Massaging your breasts in circular motions before and during feedings can help ease milk flow and reduce engorgement.

Blocked Milk Ducts

A blocked duct happens when milk gets trapped in a portion of the breast, causing a firm, tender lump that can be painful. It may feel like a sore, localized spot in the breast. If left untreated, a blocked duct can lead to mastitis (an infection), so it's important to address this promptly.

What can help?

Frequent nursing: Continue breastfeeding or pumping on the affected side to help clear the blockage.

Massage: Gently massaging the area while nursing can help break up the blockage.

Heat and rest: Applying warm compresses and getting plenty of rest can help your body clear the duct.

Let-Down Reflex Discomfort

The let-down reflex is the sensation some women feel when milk starts flowing from the breast. This can feel like a tingling or prickling sensation, but in some women, it can be painful, especially in the beginning. Let-down pain tends to subside after a few weeks of regular breastfeeding.

What can help?

Breathing and relaxation: Deep breathing and relaxation techniques may help reduce discomfort during the let-down reflex.

Warmth: Using a warm compress on your breasts before nursing can promote a more comfortable let-down.

When to Seek Help

If breastfeeding is consistently painful or you notice severe nipple damage (such as bleeding or cracking), it's important to seek help from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider. Persistent pain could indicate issues such as a poor latch, tongue-tie, or other breastfeeding challenges that can be addressed with professional support.

While some discomfort is normal during the early days of breastfeeding, it should improve over time. Don't hesitate to ask for help if pain persists or worsens, as breastfeeding should be a positive, nurturing experience for both you and your baby!

DISCLAIMER: THIS CONTENT DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information contained is for informational purposes only and is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely solely on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider.