Sore nipples while breastfeeding are far more common than most new mothers expect — research suggests 80–95% of breastfeeding mums experience some degree of nipple pain, especially in the early weeks. If you're dealing with nipple pain while breastfeeding right now, you're not doing anything wrong, and you're definitely not alone.
In the meantime, Lansinoh HPA® Lanolin Nipple Cream can help soothe and protect sore, cracked, or irritated nipples. It's naturally hypoallergenic, approved by the British Allergy Foundation, and — unlike many other nipple creams — doesn't need to be wiped off before your baby's next feed.
Looking for a broader nipple care routine, from pregnancy through to established feeding? Read our full guide: How to Take Care of Your Nipples While Breastfeeding.
What Causes Sore Nipples?
Here are a few common sore nipple causes:
Engorgement and Sore Breasts After Pregnancy
In the days after birth, it's completely normal for breasts to feel fuller, heavier, and more tender as milk production ramps up. Occasionally this fullness tips into engorgement — where breast tissue becomes hard, swollen, and painful, and the nipple may flatten, making latching harder. Sore breasts after pregnancy are often linked to this early milk-supply surge rather than anything going wrong.
What helps: Nurse frequently on the affected side to prevent overfullness. If the breast is very full or the nipple is flattened, hand-express or pump a small amount of milk before feeding to soften the area. A cold compress between feeds (such as a reusable gel pack), plenty of rest, and a well-fitted supportive bra can all ease discomfort.
Blocked Milk Duct
A blocked milk duct develops when milk isn't fully drained from an area of the breast regularly. It typically feels like a small, firm, tender lump. Left unaddressed, a blocked duct can progress toward mastitis, so early action matters.
What helps: Continue breastfeeding often on the affected side — this helps loosen the blockage and keep milk flowing. A warm compress applied just before feeding can also help. Choose a supportive, well-fitting bra, ideally without an underwire, since tight or restrictive bras can contribute to duct blockages.
Mastitis
Mastitis is breast tissue inflammation, most often caused by milk that isn't being properly removed — frequently following an unresolved blocked duct. Signs include a red, swollen, hot, and painful area of the breast, sometimes alongside flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches.
What helps: Keep breastfeeding or pumping on the affected side to fully drain the breast at each feed, apply a warm compress before nursing, and prioritize rest. If symptoms don't improve within 24 hours, or you develop a fever, contact a healthcare provider — mastitis can sometimes require antibiotics.
Latch and Positioning Issues
As you and your baby get used to breastfeeding, poor latching can also cause sore nipples. Getting the right latch will take time and practice. If you experience flat nipples and your baby has difficulty latching on, you need to gently draw out your nipple and you can use the Lansinoh Latch Assist to help you with this.
Tongue Tie
A tongue-tie — where the strip of tissue under a baby's tongue restricts movement — can prevent a deep, effective latch, leading to ongoing nipple pain even when positioning looks correct. This is a medical condition best assessed and, if needed, treated by a pediatrician, ENT specialist, or IBCLC.
Breaking Suction Incorrectly
Pulling your baby off the breast without first breaking the suction is a small but common cause of nipple soreness. Before ending a feed, gently insert a clean finger between your baby's gums to release the latch.
Thrush
Because nipples are frequently wet during breastfeeding, they can become vulnerable to a yeast (candida) infection known as thrush. Thrush-related nipple pain often has a burning or itching quality that persists even between feeds, sometimes with pink, shiny, or flaky skin. Keeping nipples clean and dry, and changing breast pads regularly, can help reduce risk.
Using the wrong size breast pump shield
Using a breast pump shield (flange) that's too small can rub against the nipple with each cycle, causing irritation, soreness, and even reduced milk output. Getting properly fitted for the right flange size is a simple fix that's often overlooked.
Your baby is teething
Sometimes nipple discomfort has nothing to do with latch or supply — it's an early sign your baby has started teething. Gumming or biting during or after feeds can be a clue. Offering a teething ring between feeds can help redirect the urge to bite.
Tips to help sore nipples heal:
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Check positioning and attachment. Your baby should take a full mouthful of breast tissue, not just the nipple, with their tongue positioned beneath it.
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Feed frequently. A new baby needs to feed 8-12 times in a 24-hour period.
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Start on the least sore side first, then switch once milk is flowing and your baby's suck softens.
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Avoid wearing nipple shields.
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Change breast pads often, and avoid pads with plastic backing, which trap moisture against the skin.
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Wear breathable, cotton bras to support air circulation.
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Offer teething toys to your baby, so they don’t gum on your nipples.
- Keep nipples moisturized between feeds to prevent dryness and cracking. Choose a nipple cream that doesn't require removal before breastfeeding — extra wiping and rubbing can aggravate already-sensitive skin. Lansinoh HPA® Lanolin is formulated for exactly this, and for daily maintenance once soreness has eased, the Organic Nipple Balm is a lighter option.
- Let nipples air-dry after feeds when possible, rather than covering them immediately.
- Avoid harsh soaps or alcohol-based products on the nipple area, which can strip natural oils and delay healing.
Breastfeeding can be extremely hard and tiring. So, if you are still struggling, do get help from a breastfeeding counsellor or lactation consultant.
Useful organisations:
National Childbirth Trust (NCT) Breastfeeding Line: 0870 444 8708
La Leche League: 0845 120 2918
Association of Breastfeeding Mothers: 08444 122 949
