Is it normal to feel pain while breastfeeding?
If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, you may have heard people say:
«Breastfeeding hurts at the beginning, but then it gets better.»
While breastfeeding can feel intense in the first days, persistent pain during breastfeeding is not normal.
Many mothers continue breastfeeding in pain because they believe it is something they simply have to endure. However, in most cases breastfeeding pain has a specific cause that can be identified and improved.
In this article you will learn the most common reasons why breastfeeding may hurt and when it may be helpful to seek support from an IBCLC lactation consultant.
Common causes of breastfeeding pain
Breastfeeding pain can occur for many reasons. Identifying the cause is essential to finding the right solution.
Some of the most common causes include:
Shallow latch
One of the most frequent reasons for breastfeeding pain is an ineffective latch.
When the baby only holds the nipple instead of a large part of the areola, mothers may experience:
• sharp nipple pain
• nipple damage or cracks
• a pinching sensation during feeds
A shallow latch can also make milk transfer less effective.
Cracked nipples
Cracked nipples are small wounds that can appear due to poor latch or ineffective sucking.
Symptoms may include:
• intense pain at the beginning of a feed
• bleeding or visible wounds
• fear of putting the baby back to the breast
Although they are relatively common, cracked nipples should not persist for weeks.
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia)
Some babies have a tongue-tie that restricts tongue movement.
This may lead to:
• clicking sounds while feeding
• very long feeds
• nipple pain
• slow weight gain
A proper tongue-tie assessment should be done by a professional trained in breastfeeding evaluation.
Breast pump problems
Pain can also appear when using a breast pump if:
• the flange size is incorrect
• suction is too strong
• the pump is not suited to the mother’s anatomy
In many consultations, simply adjusting the correct flange size can dramatically improve comfort.
When should you seek help?
Occasional discomfort may happen, but professional support may be helpful if you experience:
• persistent pain
• nipple cracks that do not heal
• severe pain during feeds
• fear of breastfeeding because of pain
How an IBCLC lactation consultant can help
An IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) is a professional with specialized training in breastfeeding.
During a consultation we evaluate:
• baby’s latch and positioning
• milk transfer
• tongue function
• breast pump use and flange size
• nipple condition
“As an IBCLC lactation consultant in Seville, I support mothers experiencing breastfeeding pain and help them find practical solutions to make breastfeeding comfortable again.”
— Lola Mora, IBCLC
