Can I still breastfeed if my nipples are dry and cracked? Nine measures to continue breastfeeding

The condition of nipple cracks often occurs during lactation. Emphasizing its harmfulness, treating and cooking with reasonable methods can not only ensure normal breastfeeding, but also ensure the health of women.

Can I still breastfeed with cracked nipples

After the occurrence of nipple cracking, it is generally not necessary to immediately stop breastfeeding. Continuing breastfeeding can prevent bacteria from invading breast tissue through cracks, avoiding the occurrence of mastitis and breast abscess. However, attention should be paid to correcting the baby's suction method, not just sucking on the nipple, and trying to make the baby contain areola as much as possible.

If the mother is breastfeeding with a cleft nipple on one side, the baby may use a lot of force when starting to suck milk when hungry. Therefore, the baby can first suck on the complete side of the milk, and then suck on the cracked side. When inhaling on the cracked side, the inhalation force slows down and the pain alleviates. If there are cracks in both breasts, the baby can absorb the lighter side first, while paying attention to the fact that the baby contains nipples and most of the areola, and frequently changing the breastfeeding posture. After breastfeeding, a small amount of milk can be applied to the nipple.

If there are cracks in the mother's breasts on both sides and the pain during breastfeeding is unbearable, breastfeeding can be suspended for 1-2 days, but after sucking out the milk, the baby can be raised in a container.

What to do with cracked nipples

1. When cleaning nipples, avoid using alkaline soap, detergents, or medicinal oils, and generally clean with warm water.

2. Continue breastfeeding the baby while improving their attractive posture. Mothers can first feed painless breasts and let the baby suck on their areola to prevent excessive nipple friction or biting. After improving the feeding posture, pain usually improves quickly and dry cracks heal quickly.

3. During breastfeeding, try to expose the cracked nipple to air and sunlight as much as possible to help heal the cracks. After breastfeeding, try to wear loose underwear and bras, correct the nipple mask, and cure the damaged nipple through air circulation.

4. After each lactation, leave a drop of breast milk on the nipple. The milk has antibacterial factors that can help heal cracks, and the rich protein content is also beneficial for epidermal repair. But be careful not to overdo it, and if there is any milk overflow, clean it in a timely manner.

5. After some mothers have improved their sucking posture, nipple pain still persists, or due to breast swelling, the baby cannot eat enough milk, which can worsen the accumulation of milk. Therefore, it is best to squeeze out the milk before the crack heals.