Breastfeeding Pain Remedies
- Leto Editorial Team
- Jun 26
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 26
Breastfeeding is natural—but, it can also hurt! If you're feeling pain while nursing, you're not alone. Many new moms go through it. Painful breastfeeding is common but not normal, and there are simple ways to fix it.
The top reasons for pain during breastfeeding are:
1. Poor Latch
If your baby isn’t latched deeply, they may pinch your nipple. This causes cracks, soreness, or even bleeding. [Read more about it on " How to Identify and fix a Bad Breastfeeding Latch”]
2. Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie
Some babies have tight tissue under the tongue or lip. This makes it hard to suck properly and causes pain.
3. Engorgement & Oversupply
When your breasts are too full, it’s hard for the baby to latch. It can also cause a forceful milk flow that makes feeding uncomfortable.
4. Thrush (Fungal Infection)
A burning or stabbing pain during or after feeding could mean a yeast infection. Your baby might have white patches in their mouth too.
5. Blocked Ducts or Mastitis
Painful lumps, redness, and fever might be a sign of infection. This needs quick attention.
How to Get the Perfect Latch
A deep latch helps milk flow easily and prevents pain.
Try these steps:
Hold your baby chest-to-chest with you.
Line up their nose with your nipple.
Wait for a wide open mouth like a yawn.
Bring the baby to your breast (not the other way around).
Make sure their lips are flared out like a fish and their chin touches your breast first.
[Read more about Best Positions for Breastfeeding Comfortably in the article.]
Use the Flipple Technique (Exaggerated Latch)
This technique helps get a deeper latch—especially useful for flat or inverted nipples.
How to do it:
Line baby’s nose to nipple.
Wait for a big open mouth.
As baby latches, flip your nipple upward using your thumb so they take more areola.
Make sure the lower jaw is farther down than the upper lip.
Simple Remedies for Painful Breastfeeding
✔ Fix the Latch
Try the flipple or get help from a lactation consultant.
If you think your baby has tongue-tie, ask your pediatrician.
✔ Heal Your Nipples
Express a few drops of milk and apply it to your nipples.
Use lanolin cream to soothe cracks.
Let your nipples air-dry after feeds.
✔ Manage Engorgement
Express a little milk before feeding to soften the breast.
Try a laid-back position to reduce milk flow speed.
✔ Treat Infections
If you suspect thrush, both you and your baby need treatment.
For mastitis, keep feeding, rest, apply cold packs, and see your doctor if it doesn’t improve in 24 hours.
✔ Pain Relief Tips
Apply cold packs before or after feeds.
Take some OTC pain-relief like paracetamol (if approved by your doctor).
When to Get Help
It’s time to see an expert if:
You’re in pain despite correcting the latch
You notice tongue-tie signs
You have fever, pus, or severe pain
FAQ's
Is nipple pain normal in the beginning?
Mild soreness is common. But pain that makes you wince, lasts long, or cracks your skin is not. Get help early!
What should a good latch feel like?
A deep, pulling sensation—not a sharp pain.
Can I still breastfeed with thrush?
Yes, but both you and your baby must be treated.
How do I know if my baby has tongue-tie?
Look for poor weight gain, clicking sounds, or difficulty latching. Your doctor can assess it.
Should I stop breastfeeding with mastitis?
No. Keep feeding. It helps unblock ducts and speeds healing.
Breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt—and you don’t have to suffer silently. A good latch, the right technique, and proper care make all the difference.
If you’re struggling, you’re not alone—and help is just a call or click away.
💬 Need support? 📞 Call us, 🩺 Book an appointment, or 📍Visit our clinic for lactation guidance.
At Leto, we do more than treat symptoms—we care for the whole you. Our unique approach blends advanced medical services with compassionate, personalized care to support your physical, emotional, and overall well-being. Whether it’s a consultation, diagnosis, or treatment, we’re here to guide you on a healthier, happier journey.
Redefine your healthcare experience. Connect with us today!
About the Author
This article was written Dr. Saktipriya, Consultant Pediatrician & Certified Lactation Consultant, Leto Centre for Health, Ashok Nagar, Chennai.
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