Breastfeeding a new baby can be very uncomfortable for some. Just take a moment to think about it- a very tender area (your nipples) are all of a sudden getting constantly stimulated with yanking, pulling, and suckling! Sure, they will be sore and tender to the touch at first. However, it should never be painful. Pain is a sign that something is not quite right and should be checked out by a qualified lactation professional. Feel free to follow the links below to find the right support for you in your area!

• Board Certified Lactation Consultants near you
• La Leche League Support Groups near you

When a medical issue is not the reason for a painful latch, easing the common discomfort of breastfeeding can be done on your own by ensuring a proper, deep latch and using a variety of therapy products.

Signs of a proper latch:

• Nose to chin
• When inserting breast into baby’s mouth, go from nose to chin and roll in the nipple
• Fish Lips
• Baby’s lips should be rolled outward
• Baby’s lips should be in as much contact as possible with the areola
• Little areola should be showing (depending on size)
• Suction
• Baby’s cheeks should appear full
• You should not hear clicking noises or see dimpling on cheeks
• Baby's Cues
• Baby is relaxed at the breast, no longer fussing 
• Baby is not pulling off the breast

Once you have the basics of latching down, the positioning baby properly also helps increase breastfeeding comfort.

Proper positioning:

• Is your baby focused and ready to feed?
• Does baby like to be swaddled or unswaddled?
• Are they displaying hunger cues?
• Tummy to tummy
• Baby’s tummy should be facing mom’s tummy when feeding
• Baby’s head should be straight on to breast, no turning necessary

Need some help recovering from the early days of breastfeeding? Nipple balm and therapy pillows are the perfect remedy!