How to Treat Sore Nipples and Breastfeeding Pain
By Teddyy Editorial Team | Last Updated: April 3, 2026
What Causes Nursing Breasts To Hurt
Sore nipples are one of the most common challenges new mothers face while breastfeeding. There are many possible reasons for nursing breasts to hurt. Your baby might be latching on too firmly, you have not yet found the right bra fit for a nursing mother, or in more serious cases, sore nipples might be a warning sign of breast cancer.
It is important to visit your doctor, if the breast pain doesn’t subside after a few days. Here are some common reasons why you might be suffering from sore nipples and breastfeeding pain.
Breast Engorgement
Breast engorgement happens when your breasts get too full of milk. You might have gone too long without nursing, if you have just started breastfeeding your baby, your body is still adjusting to the new demands made of it and trying to figure out how much milk is actually needed.
Breast engorgement hurts and makes it difficult for the baby to latch on to the nipple. You might have to release some milk yourself before you let your baby feed.
Milk Letdown
Mothers bodies have a natural let-down reflex. When the baby latches onto the nipple, this reflex makes the milk flow out without much hassle. When your baby sucks on the nipple, tiny nerves are stimulated and your body releases two hormones in to your bloodstream. Prolactin helps make the milk, while oxytocin allows for the release of milk.
Clogged Milk Ducts
Clogged milk ducts can happen due to wearing a bra that is too tight, missing feedings or delaying them for too long. They feel like firm lumps, sore and warm to the touch. Clogged milk ducts are very common among breastfeeding moms and are not a reason to worry.
Mastitis
Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that sometimes involves an infection. It can cause redness, swelling, warmth and pain in one or both breasts. You might also have fever and chills. A mastitis infection typically occurs due to milk that is trapped in the milk ducts.
Tips for soothing painful breasts when nursing
It’s tough having to manage a fussy baby, office work, household chores without the added discomfort of aching and painful breasts. Here’s how you can relieve yourself:
- Apply an over-the-counter breastfeeding ointment such as Lanolin if you suffer from sore cracked nipples. You don’t need to wipe such ointments off during feeding sessions. They aren’t toxic for the baby and don’t absorb into the breastmilk at all.
- Apply cold compresses to help sore nipples during breastfeeding. You can also consider using over-the-counter soothing packs to relieve breast pain.
- Let your nipples air out after feedings. It might seem a little strange, but breastmilk helps soothe and heal sore, cracked nipples. So, don’t wipe the milk off during the next feeding session and let them air-dry.
- If the pain and discomfort are constant, you can take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Since, you are breastfeeding, it is best to let your doctor prescribe you medicines, even the ones that are safe to have during normal days.
- Use breast compressions to help your baby to get milk more quickly. This reduces the time that the baby is latched on to the nipple, which often results in painful swelling. Squeeze the breast gently while the baby is feeding to help them get milk quicker.
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When to Seek Help for Sore Nipples
If sore nipples persist despite home remedies, or if you notice signs of infection like redness, swelling, or fever, consult a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider promptly. Persistent pain can sometimes indicate conditions like thrush or mastitis that require medical treatment.
For expert breastfeeding guidance, visit La Leche League International.
References & Sources
- World Health Organization (WHO). Maternal and Newborn Health. who.int
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). National Guidelines for Maternal Care. icmr.gov.in
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Caring for Your Baby. aap.org
- Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP). Child Health Guidelines. iapindia.org
- National Library of Medicine. Diaper Dermatitis. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- WHO/UNICEF. Immunization Schedule. who.int
