Is breastfeeding supposed to be painful? I’m a new mom and I’m experiencing nipple pain, especially during latch and in the first few minutes of each feeding. I’ve heard breastfeeding is natural, so I assumed it wouldn’t hurt this much. Is some discomfort normal, or is this a sign that something is wrong with my latch, milk supply, or something else entirely? What level of pain is considered normal versus concerning, and what steps can I take to troubleshoot the cause and find relief? I’m also worried about potential long-term effects of feeding through pain.

Answer

Breastfeeding is not supposed to be consistently or severely painful. While some initial tenderness or sensitivity is common, and some discomfort may occur during the first few days as the nipples adjust, persistent or intense pain is a sign that something is wrong.

Common Causes of Pain and Discomfort:

• Incorrect Latch: This is the most frequent cause of breastfeeding pain. If the baby is not latched deeply enough, they may be sucking only on the nipple, leading to friction, soreness, and even cracking.
• Nipple Damage: Cracks, blisters, or bleeding nipples are a sign of trauma, almost always related to latch issues.
• Engorgement: When the milk comes in, the breasts can become very full, hard, and painful.
• Mastitis: A breast infection, often caused by a blocked milk duct. It can cause pain, redness, swelling, and flu-like symptoms.
• Thrush: A yeast infection that can affect both the mother’s nipples and the baby’s mouth. It can cause intense burning pain and shiny, flaky nipples.
• Vasospasm: Spasms of the blood vessels in the nipple, often triggered by cold or pressure. This can cause sharp, shooting pain.
• Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie: If the baby has restricted tongue or lip movement, they may have difficulty latching and sucking effectively, leading to nipple pain for the mother.
• Poor Positioning: Incorrect positioning can strain the mother’s body and make it difficult for the baby to latch properly.
• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Similar to vasospasm, this condition causes blood vessel constriction in the nipples, leading to pain, blanching, and numbness.
• Eczema or Dermatitis: Skin conditions on the nipples can cause itching, pain, and inflammation.
• Pumping Issues: Incorrect flange size or excessive suction when pumping can damage the nipples.

What a Correct Latch Looks and Feels Like:

• Appearance: The baby’s mouth should be wide open, taking in a large portion of the areola (the dark area around the nipple), not just the nipple. The baby’s lips should be flanged outwards. The baby’s chin should be touching the breast.
• Sensation: You should feel a strong tugging sensation, but not sharp or pinching pain. The baby’s sucks should be strong and rhythmic.

When to Seek Help:

• If you experience persistent or severe pain during breastfeeding.
• If you notice nipple damage (cracks, blisters, bleeding).
• If you suspect your baby has a tongue-tie or lip-tie.
• If you have symptoms of mastitis (fever, redness, swelling).
• If you are struggling with latching or positioning.

Professionals Who Can Help:

• Lactation Consultant (IBCLC): A certified professional specializing in breastfeeding support and education. They can assess latch, positioning, and milk supply, and provide personalized guidance.
• Doctor or Midwife: Can diagnose and treat medical conditions like mastitis, thrush, and Raynaud’s phenomenon.
• Pediatrician: Can assess the baby for tongue-tie or lip-tie and provide recommendations for treatment.
• La Leche League Leader: A trained volunteer who provides breastfeeding support and information.