Home Remedies for Sore nipples

Sore nipples are a common problem that many new mothers suffer from. Immediately after the birth of their babies, mothers may develop soreness in the breast. In fact, when severe, the nipples may even start cracking.

Symptoms of Sore Nipples

Though soreness is the initial and often the only symptom of this problem, sore nipples can also be characterized by intense pain and itching in the breasts, specifically in the nipple area. There may be lumps and bumps in the areola. The nipples may appear cracked and chapped and in severe cases, there may be a discharge from the nipples other than milk. If left untreated, the cracking may become intense and the nipples may even begin to bleed.

Causes of Sore Nipples

There are two main causes of soreness in the nipples. If the baby is not positioned properly while breastfeeding or the baby is not able to latch onto the nipple properly, it may cause the nipples to get sore. In some cases, the baby doesn’t suckle on the breast properly, causing tears on the nipples. Babies only learn to suck the nipples properly when they are latched onto the nipple properly.

There are occasional cases of fungal infections which cause soreness in the nipples. This fungal infection is caused by a fungus known as candida albicans. However, the soreness caused by fungal infections can be treated easily and reduces the pain significantly.

The soreness in the nipples caused due to inefficient latching of the baby may hurt a lot. If the pain is sudden and is characterized by a burning sensation, it could be caused due to a yeast infection. Cracks are usually caused due to yeast infections.

Home Remedies for Sore Nipples

If your nipples are feeling sore after breast feeding, apply a cool compress to them. This can help alleviate the sensation of soreness. If breast feeding causes intense soreness, keep shifting the baby from one nipple to another. When you keep switching sides, you can avoid the pressure that is caused due to the baby’s mouth. Another great way to treat the soreness is by applying a comfrey ointment. The ointment can help soften the nipples and strengthen them. If your nipples are cracked or bleeding, you can use a yarrow infused oil to treat the nipples.

Diet for Sore Nipples

To keep your nipples and breasts healthy, consume a lot of vitamin C. Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, therefore make sure that your diet contains a lot of fruits such as oranges, limes, kiwi fruits, Indian gooseberry, and other citrus fruits. Vitamin E can also help strengthen the sensitive skin on the nipples.

Other Suggestions for Sore Nipples

Since the main cause of soreness of the nipples is improper latching of the baby, make sure that you understand the proper way of breastfeeding from your doctor or a nurse. The baby should be positioned in the right manner in order for the breastfeeding process to be painless.