Sore or Cracked Nipples

• Usually due to friction from improper latching on or non-areolar grasp
• Clean with warm water once daily (avoid soap which dries out the skin)
• Then coat and lubricate nipple and areola with breast milk for sore nipples
• For cracked nipples, apply 100% lanolin (no prescription) after feedings (Exception: mother allergic to wool)
• Help your baby latch on to as much of the areola as possible by compressing areola. (Proper latching-on should prevent nipple injury)
• Prevent the breast from pulling out of your baby's mouth by supporting the breast from below during feedings
• Start feedings on the side that is least sore
• Limit feedings to less than 10 minutes on the sore side
• Don't pull your baby off the nipple until she has released her grip. You can break the seal by placing your finger in baby's mouth between the gums.
• Call your doctor if: not improved after 24 hours of treatment.