It is not meant to hurt but most mothers will experience sore breasts from breastfeeding during the early stages of nursing. Nipple soreness is the main contributing factor. This may vary from slight tenderness to bleeding or cracked nipples.

Pain in the nipples will usually be caused by inadequate understanding and positioning. Proper nursing has to be gradually learned by the infant. A newborn has an unfledged system. The mechanics of nursing take some time to get hold of. Even a little undesirable amelioration of his lips, tongue or gum injures nipple tissue, causing pain. Despite this the baby’s movement and an understanding of nursing is bound to strengthen with every feeding.

In the post natal period a slow build up of blood and milk in the breast may ensue. The breast blood vessels become congested leading to swelling, hardness and pain. As a result the nipples do not stick out enough to allow correct latch on. The pain could intensify if the breasts are not frequently emptied.

It is remarkable how a baby may feed from either the breast or a pacifier with little complication. Nevertheless, they work quite differently. With an artificial nipple the baby holds its tongue onto the hard latex and may try to replicate this on its mothers soft, mushy nipple. The tongue rubs on the nipple making it sore.

A mother’s breasts are filled with milk ducts. If for some reason these ducts are blocked the flow of milk is hindered. The breast becomes tender and painful. Mix this with exhaustion, stress and a tight bra and Mastitis may occur.

Various remedies exist. Among these is the cradle hold, which helps ensure correct latching. A mother sits upright in a chair with a pillow to her backbone under the arm holding the baby and the other on her lap to bring the baby to breast level. Engorgement may be reduced by breast massage, applying heat and letting a little milk freely flow before the baby grips. In the case of cracked nipples, a little petroleum jelly aids in healing. Infections, on the other hand, require medical attention.

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Sore breasts from breastfeeding should not deter a mother from nursing the infant to perfect health. Though the uncertainties on correct parenting constantly plague a new mother, the ensuing rigors of breastfeeding should not break one down. The pain is temporary and if you persevere the benefits are numerous.

When just beginning the act of breastfeeding, sore nipples are a common occurrence. You can suffer sore breasts for any of several causes.

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