How to avoid pain when breastfeeding?

Verified on 02/07/2024 by Alexane Flament, Editor

Find the right position

Pain can be caused by the baby’s poor position or poor latching.

To position yourself well, Public Health France advises “sit comfortably, without painful support, without tension in the legs, arms or back”. It is possible to use one or more cushions to be at the right height.

Your baby should be positioned in relation to your breast. So, “its sucking will be made easier and this will greatly reduce the risks of having sore nipples. If he doesn’t open his mouth well, you can help him by tickling his nose with your nipple and expressing a few drops of milk or colostrum to encourage him.” advises the site.

If, despite your precautions, breastfeeding is painful, do not hesitate to insert your little finger into the child’s mouth. This allows you to interrupt the suction to correct the position of your mouth.

Relieve cracks

Carole Hervé, author of Mon Allaitement Sur Mesure, published by Albin Michel, indicates that “Some mothers will want to rest their nipple to relieve pain. She specifies that this is a valid option, provided that they continue to drain the breast using a breast pump or manual pressure”.

Another useful remedy to treat cracks : lanolin. This is a cream to be applied locally. It helps with healing, just apply a small amount of product to the nipples.

Good to know : Also know that breast milk is a very good healing agent. It will disinfect the wound while closing it, avoiding the formation of scabs.

Finally, it is possible to use a « silicone breast tip » indicates Public Health France. This accessory helps protect the nipple during feeding. However, some babies have difficulty breastfeeding properly with this silicone tip.