Is Breastfeeding Painful?

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Most new moms approach breastfeeding with mild anxiety. They’ve heard from other mothers that the experience can be somewhat painful, especially when a hungry newborn latches on firmly to the nipple of an inexperienced mother.

Experienced moms describe the sensation as an “ooh-ah,” or even a flat-out “ouch,” feeling. It’s nothing you can’t handle. But your baby is stretching your nipple for the first time, and you’re not yet accustomed to the sensation.

This tenderness may last about a minute and may persist for the first several weeks of breastfeeding, after which your body will adjust and the discomfort will disappear.

You want your baby to latch on well and create a firm bond of suction. If your baby’s cheeks remain smooth as she or he sucks, rest assured there’s a good connection. If dimples appear on the baby’s cheeks, she or he has not yet latched on properly. Gently remove your baby from your breast and reposition her or him for a better connection.

When your baby correctly attaches, a strong suction seal is formed between your baby’s mouth and your breast. Between sucks, the suction pressure holds your baby’s mouth to your breast. Even if your baby is not actively sucking, the hold is still powerful.

When it’s time to switch from one breast to the other or to end a feeding, break the suction first unless, of course, your baby has already opened her or his mouth and released your nipple.

To break the suction, gently insert the tip of your finger into the corner of your baby’s mouth. Push your finger slowly between your baby’s gums until you feel the release.

(Taken from Mayo Clinic/ Living With and Understanding Your Baby; ISBN 0-688-11761-9)