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Step 1
Encourage a proper latch right from the start to help prevent nipple soreness. Correcting a problem early on results in a better sucking technique throughout your baby's infancy.
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Step 2
Watch for the signs of an infant sucking properly. He should suck vigorously at first, pause and then suck more slowly and swallow. If you hear clicking noises or his chin is not touching the breast, he's probably not latched on properly.
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Step 3
Let your nipples air dry after feeding and don't use soap on them in the shower. If they are already irritated or cracked, a little breast milk rubbed on them can help to heal the cracks and relieve pain.
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Step 4
Wean your baby as gradually as possible. It will take several weeks to completely stop your milk supply this way, but it prevents painful engorgement and is gentler for your baby as well.
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Step 5
Identify symptoms of clogged milk ducts as soon as possible to head off more serious complications. If you experience painful reddened lumps in your breast you should encourage your baby to breastfeed with her chin pointed at the hardened mass to relieve the pressure. You can also massage the lump and use a breast pump, if necessary.
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Step 6
Be aware of mastitis symptoms. If you have a fever and your breasts are overly full, hot to the touch and sore you should pump or breastfeed to relieve the pressure and seek medical attention to rule out mastitis. Mastitis is a painful bacterial infection that often requires antibiotics.
