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Illustration animée expliquant la production de lait et la prise du sein
Door: Eva Kool

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Sore, inverted, or flat nipples

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural experience, but that doesn’t mean it's always easy. During the initial days, many mothers encounter discomfort, including sore, flat, or inverted nipples. These challenges can be disheartening, but they are often temporary and manageable with the right support and techniques. You are not alone in this, and with a little patience and care, comfort and confidence are within reach.

Sore nipples when breastfeeding

It is very common for new mothers to experience sore nipples, especially during the first few weeks of breastfeeding. This tenderness can be caused by a number of factors, including hormonal changes and the baby's latch.

Common causes of sore nipples: (note for Vicki, I slightly changed his translation for subtitle 2 to include the keyword)

  • Increased sensitivity due to hormonal changes

  • Poor latch

  • Bad breastfeeding positions

  • Engorged breasts make it more difficult for the baby to latch.

  • Short lingual frenulum in the baby

  • Flat or inverted nipples affecting latch

  • Squeezing or pinching the breast while feeding

  • Removing the nipple too quickly without breaking the suction

  • Hungry or frustrated baby latching too aggressively. It is actually common for a newborn to want to breastfeed very often – that's perfectly normal.

  • Overly strong or delayed milk ejection reflex

Understanding the cause is the first step to relieving discomfort and making adjustments that promote healing and a better latch.

Sore nipples while breastfeeding – what to do?

Fortunately, there are many effective ways to relieve sore nipples while protecting breastfeeding.

Support strategies to relieve pain:

  • Help your baby latch onto the entire areola, not just the nipple.

  • Take short breaks between feedings to allow time for healing.

  • If breasts are engorged, express some milk before feeding.

  • Use warm compresses or take a warm shower to stimulate let-down.

  • Wash breasts no more than twice a day, without using soap.

  • Allow nipples to air dry and wear loose, breathable clothing.

  • Apply soothing infusions, such as sage or calendula, between feeds.

  • Gently rub the nipple with a few drops of breast milk after each feeding.

  • Choose creams that are safe for breastfeeding and do not need to be removed.

  • To remove the baby from the breast, first break the suction with a clean finger.

  • If nipples are cracked or bleeding, consider pumping or using another feeding method until healed.

With persistence and care, most soreness resolves quickly, allowing you to focus on bonding and feeding your baby.

Inverted or flat nipples and breastfeeding

Flat or inverted nipples can make latching more challenging, but they don't make breastfeeding impossible.

If your nipples appear flat (they don't protrude much or at all), try the following methods to gently encourage nipple protrusion:

  • Breastfeed frequently to stimulate nipple shape and elasticity.

  • Express a small amount of milk before feeding to soften the areola.

  • Gently roll the nipple or manually stimulate it before feedings.

  • Use a modified syringe to pull the nipple outward.

  • Pump between feedings or after to promote stimulation.

  • Consult a lactation consultant if your baby has difficulty latching.

Inverted nipples are those that pull inward instead of protruding. Some are flexible and may come out with stimulation (grade 1), while others may remain retracted (grade 2 or 3).

Here's how to promote breastfeeding with inverted nipples:

  • Identify the degree of inversion and discuss it with your doctor.

  • Try using nipple shields as a temporary aid.

  • Wear nipple shells between feedings to encourage nipple formation.

  • Consult a lactation specialist for techniques tailored to your situation.

  • Gradual and consistent support often leads to positive changes over time.

Additional tips for gentle breastfeeding

When things are difficult, remember that breastfeeding is a journey, not a test. These small adjustments can make a big difference:

  • Keep your baby calm and comforted before latching to reduce frustration.

  • Practice good hygiene to avoid infections or irritations.

  • Monitor your baby's weight gain to ensure they are getting enough milk.

  • As your baby grows and breastfeeding becomes easier, gradually reduce the use of nipple shields.

Breastfeeding with sore, flat, or inverted nipples can be emotionally and physically draining, but it does not define your success as a mother. Every challenge you face is an opportunity to take care of yourself while caring for your baby. With knowledge, support, and gentle perseverance, you can overcome these difficulties and create a breastfeeding experience that works for both of you.

Eva Kool

Eva Kool

With 15 years of experience as a maternity nurse and as a mother of three, I am truly passionate about the world of babies and baby care. At Difrax LOVI, I support professionals and specialised stores as a trainer and advisor, while also assisting the sales & marketing team. My goal: to share my expertise and provide parents with reliable and reassuring information for their baby's well-being.