How to Soothe Sore Nipples From Breastfeeding

Breast milk is scientifically proven to be the best thing that you can feed your baby. However, when you are first getting used to breastfeeding (and again when your baby begins to cut her first teeth), you may experience some swelling, inflammation and soreness around your nipples. This is caused by the baby sucking on the nipples, and it can be a serious problem for new mothers. It is also difficult to treat, as most remedies for dry skin are not good for a baby to ingest. Here's how to soothe sore nipples from breastfeeding without endangering your baby's health.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Calendula oil
• Cotton swabs

1. Breastfeed your baby as usual. It is best to begin this treatment after a breastfeeding, because this will give the calendula oil time to soak in and soothe your nipples before you start all over again.

2. Dip a cotton swab in the calendula oil. Keep the part of the swab that you are holding dry, but soak the rest of the cotton ball.

3. 
   Calendula heals mildly irritated skin and protects healthy skin from inflammation.

   Press the oil-soaked cotton gently against your nipples. Do not press so hard that the oil drips down your breasts or stomach. Simply lay the cotton ball against your skin for a moment and let the oil soak in.

4. Rub any remaining oil into your nipples gently with your fingers. If your nipples are too sore for this, simply replace your bra without rubbing the oil in. It will be absorbed eventually. (But be aware that the oil may ruin your undergarment.)

5. Gently wash your nipples before feeding your baby again. Calendula will not harm a baby, but it may make your nipples taste funny.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your pediatrician before exposing your child to any herbs that might be ingested.
• Notify your doctor immediately if your nipples begin to crack or bleed, or if they are too sore to touch.

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