Breastfeeding is a wonderful thing. It helps to build the bond between mother and child and it is vital for the development of the baby. However, it can be painful at times. When breastfeeding you must understand how to take care of your breasts correctly, especially in the event that you experience pain. There are many different problems that may come about while breastfeeding. You may experience cracked nipples, milk blisters, or even have to deal with baby bites.

Got Cracked Nipples?

If you notice cracked nipples, and you will if you have them because they are extremely painful, you will need to find the root of the problem. Typically, the cause of cracked nipples, also known as thrush, is due to the baby not latching on properly. If you are a new mom, you will need to figure out the most comfortable positions (for both you and the baby) to breastfeed. When you hold them the wrong way, it may force them to latch on improperly and suckle on tender areas.

What Helps Ease The Pain?

You will want to make sure that you switch breasts often. This will allow each one to have healing time between feedings. If you find the pain to be too much, you may want apply ice round the nipple to numb it before the baby latches on. If the pain is unbearable, you may need to switch to a breast pump, which will help you avoid developing mastitis.
After pumping your milk or feeding the baby, you will want to wash the area with a saline solution. This will help to keep your breast free of bacteria and avoid infection. Rubbing a small amount of breast milk to the area after the saline wash will help promote faster healing and keep the area moisturized.

You will want to expose your nipples to the air as much as possible. If you have to wear a bra, make sure to keep disposable pads inside it to avoid the friction from your bra and keep the area dry. Tylenol is also able to relieve some of the pain, especially pain from bites.

Consult a Doctor

While healing your nipples is easy if you take the proper precautions, there are some signs you will want to watch out for. If you experience any of the following symptoms, go see your doctor as soon as possible: fever, oozing, swelling or inflammation. These may indicate that you have more than just one infection and may require antibiotics.

Breastfeeding is important for your baby’s immune and brain development. You have to make sure to maintain proper breast care if you are going to be breastfeeding. There are many different ailments that may come about, so be prepared for them.