I’ve asked a lot of new parents what their biggest concern about breastfeeding was when they were expecting their first baby. The overwhelming answer? Nipple pain. First-time parents often worry that breastfeeding is going to hurt… and maybe you are worried about it, too.
It’s no surprise—there are countless stories about painful breastfeeding experiences. You’ve likely heard them from friends, family members, or even stumbled across them on the internet. So, is there some truth to the idea that breastfeeding is painful?
Well… yes. Nipple pain during breastfeeding is common, but here’s the key: it’s not normal.
Breastfeeding isn’t supposed to hurt. Think about it—if breastfeeding was inherently painful, how could humans have relied on it to survive and thrive for millions of years? Breastfeeding is designed to be a natural, comfortable, and even relaxing experience for both parents and babies.
But what happens when it does hurt? Does that mean you’re doing something wrong? Not necessarily. It just means something needs a little adjustment or attention.
Why Does Breastfeeding Hurt?
There are several possible reasons for nipple pain, and it’s often a combination of factors. As a lactation consultant, some of the most common causes I see include:
Suboptimal latch or positioning: This can cause friction or compression on the nipple, leading to pain.
Tension or tightness in the baby’s body: If your baby has difficulty opening their mouth wide or getting into a comfortable position, it can affect how they latch.
Tethered oral tissues (like tongue-tie): These structural issues can make it harder for babies to feed effectively and cause discomfort.
What Can Be Done?
The good news is that most cases of nipple pain are fixable—and the sooner you address the issue, the better.
Start with positioning and latch: Often, small tweaks to how you hold your baby or guide their latch can make a big difference. This is where a prenatal breastfeeding class can be invaluable. By learning about optimal positioning and latch techniques before your baby arrives, you can reduce the likelihood of pain from the start. (And if things still feel off, a check-in with lactation consultant can help.)
Work with an IBCLC: If you’re already breastfeeding and struggling with nipple pain, a consultation with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can help identify what’s causing the issue and provide tailored solutions. Sometimes it’s as simple as refining your positioning; other times, it might involve addressing deeper challenges like oral ties or body tension in your baby.
Listen to your body: Pain is a signal that something needs attention. You don’t need to push through it or settle for “this is just how it is.” Breastfeeding is meant to be a positive, nurturing experience for both of you—and with the right support, it can be.
Let’s Fix It
So, does breastfeeding hurt? Sometimes, yes. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. If you’re experiencing pain, reach out for help. Whether it’s adjusting your latch, addressing an underlying issue, or finding the right tools to support your goals, there are solutions.
Your breastfeeding experience matters, and with the right support, it can be as comfortable and joyful as it’s meant to be.
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