How to manage sore nipples while breastfeeding?

Question

Hello doctor,

My wife is breastfeeding our 32-day-old baby boy. She is feeling pain in both breasts. Also, sometimes a part of the front portion of the left breast becomes hard. Her nipples swell and become hard. She is crying during and after feeding the baby. How can we manage this? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It seems like engorgement of breasts; she has to express milk from breasts and needs to take antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicines.

For medications, I suggest she can take the following

Tablet Amoxicillin with Clavulanic acid (antibiotic) two times a day for five days.
Tablet Diclofenac, Paracetamol, and Serratiopeptidase (all three anti-inflammatory combined)for pain relief.

However, in case of no relief, visit the nearest hospital. Consult your doctor and take the medicines accordingly.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern(attachments removed to protect the patient's identity).

It sounds like you might be experiencing breast engorgement, especially since your nipples are hard and painful and your baby is still showing signs of hunger despite feeding.

Breast engorgement happens when the breasts become overly full of milk, leading to swelling, hardness, and discomfort.

However, if your baby’s stomach still seems empty and they want more milk, it could also be an issue with the latch or milk transfer. If the baby is not latching properly or not able to efficiently extract milk, it may result in the breasts remaining full while the baby is still hungry.

Here are some steps to consider:

Ensure proper latch: A poor latch may cause the baby to not get enough milk, despite feeding.
Frequent feedings: Offer the breast frequently to prevent engorgement and ensure the baby is fed.
Massage the breasts: Gentle massaging of the breast can help release milk and reduce engorgement.
Warm compresses before feeding: This can help with milk flow and ease the pain.
Cold compresses after feeding: This can help reduce swelling.

If the pain continues or if you are unsure about this, then please consult the nearest lactation consultant so one can assess if it is an engorgement or another issue like a blocked duct or mastitis.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.