Nipple care while breastfeeding – how to prevent cracked nipples and how to encourage healing.
The most common cause for sore or cracked nipples while breastfeeding is as a result of poor latching of the baby’s mouth on the nipples while breastfeeding. When a good breastfeeding position and the proper latch is achieved, then it is unlikely that you would develop sore nipples. So, how do I get the proper latch? The picture below shows how a baby should latch properly while breastfeeding. Your baby’s mouth should cover the entire dark area of the breast, called the areola; your baby’s chin should also touch your breast. This measure helps prevent cracked nipples. So what if my nipples are already cracked? Well, if your nipples are already cracked, you will have to resist the urge not to breastfeed your baby. It is in breastfeeding that it will eventually get healed. Here are a few things you could do to help ease your pain and encourage healing: · Before you start breastfeeding, express a little breastmilk...