The key to breastfeeding is getting the right latch. Your baby should have a nice wide-open mouth and should take in the areola as well as the actual nipple. If the shape of your nipple is distorted after a feed, your latch may need adjusting, and if it hurts when your baby is feeding it is more than likely because he or she isn’t latched on properly.
Move your baby to your breast, rather than moving your breast to your baby's mouth.
Sometimes when your milk comes in, your breasts can become painfully full and hard, and it can be difficult for your baby to latch on. Keep trying to feed, as that is the best way to drain your breast. To make it easier for your baby to latch on, you could try expressing a bit of milk before she feeds – either with a pump or by hand-expressing. Try expressing in a nice warm bath.
Many women find alternating hot and cold compresses helps ease the pain of engorgement – cold Savoy cabbage leaves from the fridge are ideal, as are hot water bottles wrapped up in a towel.
Please be aware that the information given in these articles is only intended as general advice and should in no way be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you or your family or your child is suffering from symptoms or conditions which are severe or persistent or you need specific medical advice, please seek professional medical assistance. Philips AVENT cannot be held responsible for any damages that result from the use of the information provided on this website.