How is painful breastfeeding treated?

Nipple soreness commonly follows shallow attachment, an awkward feeding position or a baby struggling to stay latched. A blocked milk duct can cause a tender, firm area. Mastitis may bring breast redness, warmth, swelling and feeling unwell. Nipple thrush can cause burning pain during or after feeds, sometimes with shiny or irritated nipples. Pain that continues despite a good latch deserves an assessment rather than being accepted as a normal part of feeding.

A lactation consultation can observe a feed and adjust the baby’s position, attachment and transfer of milk. Feed responsively, avoid tight pressure on the breast and use gentle comfort measures. If a blocked area is suspected, seek advice about continuing milk removal without forceful massage. A clinician may prescribe treatment for mastitis or nipple thrush and may assess the baby when infection could pass between you.

Contact a clinician promptly for fever, chills, a rapidly reddening breast, worsening swelling, pus, a spreading painful area or symptoms that do not improve. Seek urgent help if you feel severely unwell. Get feeding support when cracked or bleeding nipples, poor infant weight gain or reduced wet nappies are concerns.

Ask whether the latch is transferring milk well, whether the pain fits a blocked duct, mastitis or nipple thrush, and whether you or your baby need treatment. Ask which pain relief options are compatible with breastfeeding.