Breastfeeding can be a beautiful experience, but it’s not always easy. In the early days and weeks, nipple or breast discomfort is common — but how do you know what’s normal and what needs attention?
Is Nipple Pain Normal at First?
A little discomfort can be normal in the first week or two, especially during latch-on. But there’s a difference between “typical” nipple pain and pain that signals a problem.
Normal Early Discomfort Might Look Like:
• A mild to moderate sting or ache during latch-on, lasting no more than 30 seconds.
• The pain peaks around day 3 postpartum and improves within two weeks.
• No visible damage to the skin — no cracks, blisters, or bleeding.
• The nipple looks the same before and after a feed (not squashed or misshapen).
If this sounds like your experience, some simple latch adjustments and time may help. But…
When to Get Help
Please don’t “tough it out” if:
• The pain is excruciating or makes you dread feeding.
• Pain lasts through the entire feed or between feeds.
• You have cracks, bleeding, scabs, blisters, or bruising.
• The pain persists beyond two weeks.
Pain is your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right. There’s help available — you are not failing, and you’re not alone.
What Could Be Causing Nipple Pain?
• Latch issues – Shallow latch or baby’s lips not flanged out.
• Tongue/lip ties or unusual oral anatomy.
• Strong suction, clenching, or baby biting the nipple.
• Flat, inverted, or large nipples making latch more difficult.
• Rashes or skin conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis.
• Pump-related problems – Incorrect flange size or suction settings.
• Thrush (yeast infection) – Look for shiny skin, pain between feeds.
• Forceful let-down – Baby may clamp down to cope with fast milk flow.
What About Sore Breasts?
It’s normal for your breasts to feel heavy or uncomfortable around days 2–5 when your milk “comes in.” But intense or prolonged breast pain may signal something else.
Common Causes:
• Engorgement – Overfull breasts can be painful; frequent feeding helps.
• Plugged ducts or mastitis – Usually comes with a tender lump or fever.
• Forceful let-down or oversupply – May cause sharp or shooting pain.
• Vasospasm – Burning pain or nipples turning white after feeding.
• Muscle strain – From poor posture, tight carriers, or heavy breasts.
• Thrush – Often paired with nipple pain or flaky, shiny skin.
You Deserve Comfortable Breastfeeding
If something doesn’t feel right, reach out. A qualified lactation consultant (IBCLC) can help you identify the root cause and support you through healing.
No one should have to endure pain to nourish their baby.
Healing Tips While You Seek Support
• Air dry nipples after feeds.
• Breast milk dabbed on nipples can aid healing.
• Hydrogel pads or lanolin may soothe sore skin.
• Reverse pressure softening or hand expressing before latch can help with engorgement and latch issues.