Pain and pain relief - Questions and Answers

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Pain and pain relief

See also:

Sore breasts in the Potential problems and solutions section
Thrush
Mastitis
Breast care products

Should it hurt to breastfeed? It is so painful when I start?

Breastfeeding should not be painful. See the section on Nipples for more information about what to expect from normal nipple tenderness at the beginning of a breastfeed and how long this is likely to continue for.

Correct positioning and attachment usually resolves nipple pain after this initial period of tenderness post-delivery (7-10 days). As many women stop breastfeeding due to nipple pain it is important to seek help and advice if you are experiencing pain and thinking of giving up breastfeeding because of this. In a study of 100 breastfeeding mothers up to 96% of these women experienced sore nipples during the first week of breastfeeding.

A very small number of mothers experience a cramp like pain inside their breasts when the milk starts to flow and let down. This is likely to pass once breastfeeding establishes. Mothers experiencing this type of pain should discuss seek advice from their Lead Maternity Carer (LMC) midwife, lactation consultant, Well Child Health worker or a La Leche League counselor.

See also advice about breast pain due to let down of milk on the La Leche League website - It hurts when my milk "lets down." What could be causing this and how can I remedy this situation? What if my pain is deep in my breast?

What can I do to relieve the pain?

Creams

Some mothers do find some creams soothing but any ointment applied to the nipple can pass to your baby so discuss the use of creams with a LMC.

Cool packs

Cool packs from the freezer (even frozen peas!) can give relief.

Cabbage leaves

Even though there is no research evidence to recommend using cold cabbage leaves straight from the fridge on hot and full breasts many women have found relief by using them inside a firm bra.

The leaves are placed over the breast but not the nipple. Remove the leaves after about ten to fifteen minutes as they become warm and soft quickly (and smelly!).

See also a factsheet with information about using cabbage leaves for engorged breasts on the Breastfeedingonline.com website - Miscellaneous Treatments.

Heat

Apply some heat to the sore area, using either a wheat pack or a hot water bottle, carefully wrapped in a cloth to avoid burning the sore area.

Anti-inflammatory medications

Anti-inflammatory medications can ease symptoms, make a mother feel much better, and relieve the pain. Ibuprofen tablets may be useful taken as prescribed.

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Where to get help

Midwives

Healthline - 0800 611 116

Well Child

La Leche League

More information on these and other breastfeeding help providers...

Page last reviewed: 31 July 2008