6 Effective Ways To Treat Cracked Nipples

Cracked, painful nipples are an issue that’s often faced by breastfeeding mothers. In fact, it’s a common reason why many women give up on breastfeeding. Dry skin or thrush may also cause the skin on your nipple to break and crack. If you are distressed by the pain and discomfort caused by cracked nipples, we have some tips that can help heal and soothe them.

# Make Sure Your Baby Latches On Properly

Improper attachment or latching is the most common reason behind cracked and sore nipples while breastfeeding. When the baby latches on properly, your nipple comfortably rests at the back of his or her mouth against the soft palate. On the other hand, if the baby attaches poorly, your nipple could be closer to the front of their mouth and can get squashed against the hard palate.

Flat, white, or wedged nipples can be a sign that the baby is not attaching properly. It is important to correct this to tackle the root cause of sore or cracked nipples during breastfeeding. Speak to a breastfeeding specialist who can help you correctly position and attach your baby to the breast.

# Massage In A Little Breast Milk

Here’s the most natural and easy remedy for cracked nipples while you are breastfeeding. Apply a little breast milk to sore nipples, massage it in gently, and allow it to air dry. Breast milk can heal cracked nipples as it contains compounds which soften skin and antibodies that fight off infection.

# Air Dry Your Nipples After A Feed And Dress Comfortably

Let your nipples air dry after you feed your baby. This stops clothing from getting stuck to your skin and irritating your nipples. If your nipples are cracked and hurt, using a breast shield that stops them from coming in contact with clothing can help. Also use cotton bras which allow better air circulation. And in case you use breast pads, make sure you change them frequently and that they are kept dry.

# Apply A Warm Compress

Moist, warm heat can also soothe sore nipples. It can enhance blood flow to wounded areas and promote healing. Prepare a warm compress by soaking a clean washcloth in warm water and wringing out excess moisture. Apply this to your nipples to ease pain. You can also add 1/4 to 1/2 of a teaspoon of salt to the warm water to make a saline solution and use that to prepare the compress. This can clean blisters or cuts if any and boost healing.

# Apply Purified Lanolin

Lanolin, a waxy substance that’s secreted from the sebaceous glands of sheep, is similar to the oils secreted by your own skin. It forms a protective barrier over your skin and keeps it moisturized. And studies show that it can quicken the healing of cracked nipples and reduce pain. Purified lanolin can be applied to cracked nipples with a cotton bud to promote wound healing in nursing mothers.

# Dab On Some Ghee

According to ayurveda, ghee or clarified butter has cleansing and detoxifying properties and is thought to promote healing. It has been used to treat wounds, soothe inflammation, and deal with blisters for ages. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend this mild remedy to nursing mothers for treating cracked and dry nipples