breastfeeding help! Please...

[desi0318]

It's been really painful breastfeeding so I did some research & it turns out my nipples are so sore because my baby girl hasnt been getting a deep enough latch. It's got to the point where I dread breastfeeding because it hurts so bad :( Any tips on how to get her to latch deeper? & how to continue breastfeeding where it doesn't hurt so bad without taking a 24 hour break to let my nipples heal

[RockRose]

If you have one nipple that's more sore than the other,  let her nurse on that one first because when she's hungry she'll be quicker on that one.  

[doulamommy]

Definitely let your breasts air dry after feeds when you can, then apply the lanolin when they're dry. Change your breast pads regularly.

[desi0318]

Oh thanks! I do always have left overs, lol. I won't wipe it away anymore

[gingery_person]

When she is done there may be a bit of liquid left on your nipple, do not wipe that away! It has soo many healing properties so just spread over where is sore and leave it to dry. Once its dry apply your lotion or cream.

[jessijlb1229]

This post was very helpful.  Thanks for asking the question!

[desi0318]

Thanks, I have cream!

[luxah]

Invest in some nipple cream to. They help with preventing the nipples from cracking and becoming to dry. Kinda like lip balm, cept for boobies.

[desi0318]

Thank you ladies. The damage is pretty bad. My nipples look like a lipstick when she's done & the top layer is coming off. I thought it was normal. Im going to use the nipple guard until they heal then I will practice better latching with her. Thanks again!

[gingery_person]

* :) hope that helps. You can also go to your nurse or doctor and ask for assistance if needed.

[gingery_person]

Start by holding the nipple so her bottom lip is on the very bottom of your nipple, and so the tip is at her nose, wait till she opens wide, and let your nipple fall into her mouth. She should be latched onto the base of your breast instead of the tips of your nipples. Look up "nipple to nose breastfeeding method" and you should see examples. It may be still sore and I suggest getting a nipple guard for the first few days as they heal, and breastfeeding is uncomfortable as your milk comes in. But you will get past this first hurtle and it will get better :l

[luxah]

I wouldn't say immediatly, but it will help in the long run so you're not engorged or get mastitis. I just read on another post a lady said to stand in a warm shower and as the water hits your breasts to manually expell your milk to help with the pain and pressure you may have. If it doesn't seem to get any better talk to your doc or a lactation consultant. But having a good latch is the best way to avoid problems. It takes practice and patients. Good luck.

[doulamommy]

It'll still be painful for a few days depending on the damage she did, but it shouldn't be as bad. You'll be able to tell the difference.

[doulamommy]

Make sure her mouth is super far open, like a yawn, and pull her to your breast quickly. Her lips should be like duck lips, big and flared out. If she latches wrong, stick your pinky in her mouth to break the suction, pull her off and try again.

[desi0318]

So if she gets a good enough latch it should help immediately?

[luxah]

You can also try different feeding positions. Google some, might help.

[luxah]

Before she starts to really get into the feeding make sure you have a good enough latch. Maybe use a nipple shield until they heal?