Sore/cracked nipple

[Goldmum]

I'm currently bfing my DS (who is 4 weeks old) and after a blocked duct and cracked nipple, things seemed to be improving. My cracked nipple seemed to be healing (after about 2-3 weeks of being incredibly sore), but it now seems to be getting worse again. It doesn't hurt when I'm actually feeding (which makes me think DS is latching OK) but is very tender afterwards. DS does yank his head around whilst feeding (he has reflux and think the yanking around coincides with him feeling the acid rising up in his throat). Could this be why I am still sore? The whole nipple is now looking very red raw - just on one side thankfully. Any ideas on how long it will take to heal properly? I am using Kamisolan cream as I didn't get on with Lanisoh. Any other suggestions on things to try?

[em_here]

Big big hugs, I dont have much advice as didnt bf for long, but when I had an awful crack, I made sure I went topless a few times a day to let the air to it, and that seemed to help.

More hugs, sorry to not be of much help xxxxx

[stagemanager2]

You might want to try Breast Shells... they allow air to circulate around the nipple and you can wear a bra and shirt...

[Samuel's mum]

I'm glad you feel things are getting better but sorry you are still sore.
 A few initial thoughts: I think the 'yanking' around certainly can't help but I would have thought you'd notice an effect on both sides if it was happening enough. At what point in the feed is he 'yanking'? - is it nearer the beginning and might he be struggling with a faster flow (which can be helped by positioning and/or 'block nursing'). If it's about reflux - poor little guy.
I'm a wee bit worried something else might be going on - thrush is sometimes described as red raw and is more uncomfortable after a feed for many (although you would expect it on both sides so not convinced it's that). It's also a possibility you have some kind of bacterial infection.
I would suggest a trip to the doctors. Talk about the reflux and see if there's anyway to help him medically. And just get your nipples checked for an infection (maybe take a look in baby's mouth too for thrush).
In the short term air drying is a good idea. Use cool compresses after a feed - something like 'soothies'. But I would play around with positioning e.g. use football/ rugby hold instead of cradle just so different places get the pressure.

[EllenS]

Best thing i've found for sore nipples is to express a little breastmilk on the sore place, let it air-dry and then seal it in with the cream or lanolin.

Be sure to use different positions so the pressure point is not always on the same spot.  If you do the football hold, you can prop him more upright, which might help with the reflux.

Hope it gets better soon!  Those sore nipples are a real downer.

[Mum of 3 + 2 stepkids]

Hi, just seconding the bm it worked for me and by about 5-6 week it workedsit self out.

Big hugs Kate

[Goldmum]

Thanks for all the replies. Glad to know I'm not the only one. I've been feeding DS in the same position so he can be as upright as possible due to reflux so guess that's probably not helping. He yanks his head later on in the feed which is why I think it's related to the reflux or maybe frustration as the flow slows down? Who knows!!? Just want to know that the end is in sight as the cracked nipple is driving me crazy. I was checked for thrush/infection a couple of weeks back by the GP, but think I should go back for a second opinion.

[ammie32]

I had the same with both my little ones.  The best and most absurd sounding remedy is cabbage leaves.  Take cabbage leaves and cut them down to the size of your breasts.  Place them in the fridge to cool.  Then put one on each breast under your bra until they are no longer cold.  The cold and the natural enzymes heal the nipples.  It's the BEST!!!!  It sounds ridiculous but it really works.  Good luck!

[Samuel's mum]

If you think it might be frustration towards the end try some breast compressions (see the FAQs).
Cabbage leaves are FAB although some say they can have an effect on supply. Kellymom says, "Limit use as cabbage can decrease milk supply. Leave on for 20 minutes, no more than 3 times per day; discontinue use after engorgement/oversupply subsides." Maybe lettuce would work instead!

[Vicku]

Changing position from what I'd done and keeping with this different one for a while was what helped mine to heal. If you can find another good one for your LO it's worth a try. Good luck and hope it resolves quickly!

[Goldmum]

Thanks for all the support and advice. I've now got a breast shell and that really seems to be doing the trick. Just need to train the little man not to yank his head around so much now which would help things too I think!

[Samuel's mum]

Fingers crossed. Hopefully the shell will give you a chance to heal and you won't have to use it for too long

[Vicku]

Hope you're doing well! Good bf vibes sent!