Peppermint Water to Prevent, Resolve Nipple Cracking While Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is an activity many expectant mothers look forward to. With proper coaching and proper care of the breasts, breastfeeding can be a rewarding and beneficial experience for both you and your baby. When preparing to breastfeed, it is important to understand not only technique but also how to properly care for the breasts and what remedies can be used to resolve any pain or health complications.

Because pain and complications of the breasts often result in the decision to discontinue breastfeeding prematurely, you should discuss your breast health with your physician prior to discontinuing the breastfeeding process. As part of your breast health, many physicians are, today, recommending natural remedies such as that involving peppermint water.

Cracking around the nipples is a complication that often creates great pain in women who are breastfeeding. In Iran, women often use peppermint water as a way to not only prevent pain but also to treat pain associated with nipple cracking. To use this remedy effectively, the peppermint water should be applied to the nipple and breasts after each breastfeeding session. As a natural remedy that calms and numbs the nipple area, inflammation, irritation and dryness are well managed.

Because the use of some natural products can lead to adverse health complications in your baby, it is important to use peppermint only in a water based solution and to apply only after breastfeeding. Applying the peppermint water before breastfeeding may lead to pain and discomfort in your infant. Also, before breastfeeding, if you have applied peppermint water to the breasts after the last feeding, be certain the breast and nipple area is clean before breastfeeding again. Gently clean with warm water so as to ensure your infant does not inhale any peppermint or get peppermint in the eyes or nose.