New Mothers: Overcoming Early Breastfeeding Problems

As a former La Leche League Group Leader and mother of three (now grown) children, I helped mothers for many years to successfully breastfeed their babies. I took calls, including many night calls, from new mothers with concerns. Although all mothers and babies are unique, I did find some problems seemed to be more common. Breastfeeding is best for your baby, whether you breastfeed for a day, a week, a month, a year, or longer, your baby will benefit from mother's milk.

In the early days, one complaint that seemed to be a concern was sore nipples. When most women have had their breasts protected inside bras most of the time, to begin nursing a baby regularly, the nipples can tend to get sore, especially if no preparation was done to toughen them beforehand. When a mother has sore nipples, it is wise to check to make sure the baby is latching on properly. Cradle your baby in your arms and touch the nipple to the baby's cheek. His rooting reflex will cause his head to turn toward you. Make sure you put the areola into the baby's mouth and not have him just hanging onto the end of the nipple. Failure to latch-on properly can cause sore nipples, but can easily be corrected.

Be sure to avoid breast pads or bra liners that have plastic backs. It is better to expose your breasts to air circulation when possible. Some mothers have found Vitamin E oil is helpful, but be sure to wash it off before nursing. Avoid soap when you shower as this can be drying. Sore nipples are usually temporary, but if it continues to be a problem and you are sure your baby is latching on properly, contact your obstetrician for an ointment for sore nipples.