Cracked nipples: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, and More

4.2K

What are cracked nipples?

Cracked nipples typically occur in surfers and athletes from chafing against clothing or the surfboard. These also occur in women who are breastfeeding. This can be very painful and irritating. Applying freshly expressed milk or nipple butter heals them quickly.

Symptoms:

1. Irritated, red, and exfoliated skin on or around the nipple
2. Soreness
3. Crusting
4. Oozing
5. Bleeding of the nipple tissue.

There are two causes of cracked nipples: poor latch at the breast and suction stress as a result of improper positioning.

There are so many reasons for incorrect positioning. Breastfeeding is a tricky skill for moms and babies alike. It takes a little bit of practice to correctly position the nipple in a baby’s mouth and body against the mother.

Other causes for cracked nipple are:

1. Separating your baby from your breast before releasing the suction.
2. Pumping your breast with the wrong-size flange.
3. Cleaning your breast frequently.
4. Wearing clothes that are too tight.

It’s important to know what’s causing your cracked, sore nipples so you can avoid a recurring problem.

Treatment:

1. Change Nursing Pads Frequently

Change nursing pads as soon as they become full. Leaving the moisture against your nipples can delay the healing process. Also, avoid nursing pads made with plastic linings. They can block airflow. Look for pads that are made from premium quality cotton.

2. Warm Compress

This is another easily available and inexpensive treatment option. There aren’t any antibacterial benefits you get by using this, but you may find using warm, damp compresses after breast-feeding to be calm on sore and cracked nipples.

1. To apply, dip a washcloth in warm water.
2. Squeeze out excess liquid.
3. Put the washcloth on your nipple and breast for a few minutes.
4. Gently pat dry with a towel.

     3. Nipple butter:

This can be another safe and effective option. Nipple butter heals cracked nipples, soothes sore nipples, and keeps the skin moist and hydrated. This nipple butter is safe for both mom & baby. It is enriched with natural ingredients like kokum butter, olive oil & vitamin E that are best known for their healing and moisturizing properties. The ingredients are safe for the baby which means you don’t need to worry even if the butter gets ingested by the baby.

Prevention:

Cracked nipples can be prevented by:

1. Avoiding harsh soaps or body washes. Instead, use body washes or soaps that are made out of natural ingredients.

Try:

This body wash is enriched with organic extracts like shea butter, papaya & moringa that leave your skin feeling hydrated, soft, supple and moisturized.

Read Also: How to Choose Body Washes for Oily Skin

This body butter is enriched with organic extracts like jojoba, aloe vera, and cucumber to calm sensitive skin. It also cleans clogged pores and makes your skin look fresh and healthy.

1. Rubbing a little breast milk or nipple butter on the nipple after feeding to protect it.
2. Keep your nipples dry by exposing the breasts to the air or use a hairdryer on a low setting.
3. Do not wear a bra at night.
4. Avoid products that irritate your nipples. Instead, use fragrance and chemical-free or soaps and lotions that are made using natural ingredients.

How are cracked nipples managed?

Cracked nipples generally heal soon. It usually takes around 2-3 days to heal. But in the worst case, it may take weeks.

1. Let your baby latch onto the breast completely and properly.
2. Do not feed on the affected breast. Rest the nipple for 1 to 2 feeds. Instead, express milk from that breast by hand and feed that expressed milk to the baby.
3. Start feeding gradually with short feeds.
4. Check if your baby has latched onto your whole nipple.
5. If your baby isn’t latched properly, or you feel discomfort or pain, gently place your finger in their mouth to help them position properly.
6. An experienced lactation consultant or even your mother can help you if you are having trouble while feeding. They can observe and teach you the correct technique.

Cracked nipples can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. The above-mentioned tips can help you to get through cracked nipples for sure. But if the problem is not resolving or worsening, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.