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Postpartum - Cracked nipples

Cracked nipples

Nipple discomfort and tenderness is common when someone first starts breastfeeding. Cracked nipples most often result from drying and chafing during breastfeeding due to improper position or technique. Around 38 % of breast feeding mothers face this problem and most likely to occur in first month postpartum.

Cracked nipples are characterized by red, irritated, and scabbed skin on or around the nipple. Using gentle creams and avoiding harsh soaps, chemicals, and tight clothing can help treat and prevent nipple cracking.

Prevention

How to avoid chafing during breast feeding

– Proper baby’s latch: The nipple should be fully inside the baby’s mouth, with most of the areola in the mouth, too. Hand-express a small amount of breast milk before feeding the baby, so that the breasts are not engorged (overfull and hard). Breast engorgement can make it more difficult for the baby to latch well. Always allow the baby to come off the breast naturally.

– Optimal positions during breastfeeding, mother positions and hold positions

– Proper technique of breastfeeding

So take time an effort to learn latch onto the breast, different breastfeeding position.

Top feeding

– Using a bottle to feed a baby before trying breastfeeding may also increase the chance of cracked nipples. This is because a baby will typically use a different sucking technique when using a bottle compared with a breast.

– If a baby needs supplemental milk in the early days or weeks of life, use spoon, cup, or syringe feeding, rather than using a bottle.

Breast pump

Using a breast pump, particularly if the pump flange is too small may increase the chances of getting cracked nipples.

Avoid dryness of nipples

– Wash the breasts with warm water only and use mild soaps to prevent dryness. Avoid using harsh soaps, deodorants, body powders, and other substances that could dry out the nipples.
– Apply nipple ointment or allow breast milk to dry on the breasts.

Clothing

Avoid wearing bras that are too tight, as this can increase friction on the nipples. Consider wearing breast pads made from natural materials, as these can reduce friction on the breasts.

Treatment

– Apply emollient creams, such as lanolin-based creams or coconut oil, to the nipples after breastfeeding. Some people even apply breast milk to the nipples and allow it to dry, which can prevent cracking and has antibacterial properties.

– Allowing time to heal.

– Have a cosult with lactation consultant to find improved ways of breast feeding.

Position during breastfeeding

– Sit in a chair or in bed, leaning slightly back in a position that feels comfortable. Use as many pillows as needed to feel supported.

– Hold the baby “belly to belly,” so that the front of their body is against the front of the parent’s. The baby should not have to turn their head to the side to reach the breast.

– Before latching the baby, position them so that their nose is aligned with the nipple.

– Gently rub the nipple back and forth over the baby’s mouth. This should encourage them to open their mouth. Squeezing a little bit of milk or colostrum out of the breast can also help get the baby’s attention.

– Once the baby’s mouth is open, they should take the full areola into their mouth, not just the tip of the nipple. Generally, their chin will touch the breast first.

– If the baby’s latch starts to hurt, use a finger on the corner of their mouth, moving around the lips until their mouth breaks the seal.

Cradle position:

It involves holding the baby in a cross-body position. A breastfeeding pillow, or a pillow underneath the baby, brings them up to breast height, and the parent will cradle the baby until the baby is securely against the chest and stomach. The baby should not have to turn their head to access the breast.