Caring for Your Breasts While Breastfeeding

Feeling comfortable while breastfeeding is important for both you and your baby. A little daily care can help prevent soreness and keep feedings going smoothly. 

Positioning & Latch

Getting positioned well from the start is one of the best ways to protect your comfort.  

• Wear comfortable support: Choose a soft, supportive bra if you need extra comfort. Avoid anything too tight, as pressure can lead to sore spots or plugged ducts.
• Focus on positioning and latch: A deep latch helps protect your nipples and makes feeding more comfortable. Your lactation consultant can help you find what works best.
• Change positions often: Switching positions (not just sides) prevents repeated pressure on the same area. Common positions include cradle, cross-cradle, laid-back, football and side-lying.
• Soften before latching: If your baby is having trouble latching, expressing a small amount of milk first can help soften the nipple.
• Break the suction gently: Slide a clean finger into the corner of your baby's mouth to release the latch and protect your nipple.

Breast Care

A little daily care goes a long way in keeping you comfortable and preventing soreness.

• Soothe after feeding: Express a few drops of breast milk onto your nipples and let them air-dry for about 10 minutes. For soreness, lanolin cream or hydrogel pads can help.
• Keep it simple when washing: Avoid soap directly on your nipples, as it can dry out your skin. Also avoid vitamin E ointments and A&D ointment, as these may be harmful if ingested by your baby.
• Change nursing pads often: Replace pads as soon as they become damp. Choose pads without plastic liners and avoid tight bras that trap moisture.

Common Concerns

• Engorgement: Many parents experience breast fullness or engorgement around 3–5 days after birth. Breasts may feel swollen, warm, firm, or tender, and you might notice a mild fever or headache. Breastfeeding often is the best relief. Ice packs or cool cabbage leaves between feedings can also help reduce swelling.
• Pumping comfortably: If using a breast pump, make sure the flange fits properly. A poor fit can lead to nipple soreness over time.

Most breast discomfort in the early days is normal, but some symptoms are worth a call to your care team — such as cracking, bleeding, persistent pain, a hard or warm area on your breast or fever and flu-like symptoms.