Common Causes and Solutions for Painful Breastfeeding
Many new parents find themselves wondering, “Why does breastfeeding hurt?” While breastfeeding is natural, it is also a learned skill for both parent and baby. Persistent breastfeeding pain is often a sign that something in the feeding process needs adjustment. The good news is that most causes of painful breastfeeding—such as a shallow latch, positioning challenges, or ineffective milk transfer—can be improved with small changes and the right support.
Some mild tenderness can occur during the first few days after birth as your body adjusts to feeding. However, breastfeeding should not continue to feel painful. If pain persists, it usually means something about the latch, positioning, or feeding pattern needs support.
Common Causes of Breastfeeding Pain
Several factors can contribute to breastfeeding pain in the early weeks. Identifying the cause is the first step toward making feeding more comfortable for both you and your baby.
A Shallow Latch
One of the most common causes of breastfeeding pain is a shallow latch. When a baby only takes the nipple into their mouth rather than a larger portion of the nipple and lower areola, the nipple can become compressed and sore.
A helpful technique is encouraging an asymmetric latch, meaning the baby approaches the breast at a slight angle. Instead of centering the nipple directly in the baby’s mouth, the baby takes in more of the lower portion of the breast tissue with their chin touching the breast first. This deeper latch allows pressure to be distributed across the breast instead of directly on the nipple and helps babies transfer milk more effectively. This would mean keep the baby’s chin away and tilted back while the chin in planted deeply. Another helpful tip is squeezing “sandwiching” the breast in a U shape to make it easier for baby’s to take in more tissue.
If your nipple appears flattened, creased, or pinched after a feeding, it may be a sign that the latch needs adjustment.
Baby Falling Asleep and Nibbling
Newborns often become sleepy during feeds. While it’s normal for babies to relax while nursing, sometimes they begin nibbling or lightly sucking without actively drinking milk, which can lead to nipple soreness.
Instead of allowing baby to stay on one breast until they drift off to sleep on the first side, it can help to switch sides frequently before baby falls asleep. This keeps baby more alert and encourages more effective milk transfer.
If baby begins slowing down or becoming drowsy, gently burping them and offering the other breast can often wake them enough to continue feeding actively.
Switching Sides During Feedings
Parents sometimes feel they need to stay on one breast for a long time before switching. In reality, switching sides multiple times during a feeding is completely normal and can help keep baby engaged.
Switching breasts when baby slows down can:
• encourage active sucking
• improve milk transfer
• prevent prolonged nipple compression
• help keep baby alert
Many babies benefit from switch nursing, where parents alternate between breasts several times during a feeding.
Using Breast Compressions
Another helpful technique is breast compressions. This involves gently squeezing the breast while baby is feeding to increase milk flow.
Breast compressions can:
• encourage baby to continue drinking instead of nibbling
• help sleepy babies stay engaged in feeding
• improve milk transfer
• reduce time spent feeding without active swallowing
When baby begins to slow down, gently compressing the breast can help bring more milk forward and stimulate active drinking again.
Quick Signs Breastfeeding Pain May Be Caused by Latch
Breastfeeding pain may be related to latch if:
• nipples appear flattened or creased after feeding
• baby frequently slips off the breast
• feeding feels pinching or sharp
• baby spends long periods nibbling without swallowing
• baby falls asleep quickly at the breast
These signs often improve with small adjustments to positioning and latch.
Caring for Sore Nipples
If your nipples are already sore, there are several simple ways to support healing and comfort while you work on improving the latch.
Use a nipple balm
Applying a gentle nipple balm after feeds can help moisturize and protect the skin.
Apply warmth after feeding
Adding warmth after feedings can increase blood flow and support healing. A warm compress or heating pad applied briefly after feeds can feel very soothing.
Stay warm and covered
Cold exposure can sometimes worsen nipple discomfort. Keeping your breasts warm and covered between feeds can improve circulation and reduce sensitivity.
When Breastfeeding Should Feel Better
With a comfortable latch and effective milk transfer, many parents notice breastfeeding becomes much more comfortable within the first couple of weeks.
Pain that continues beyond the early days is often a sign that feeding deserves a closer look. Small adjustments to latch, positioning, and feeding techniques can make a big difference in comfort.
You Don’t Have to Push Through Pain
Breastfeeding is a learning process for both parent and baby. If feeding feels painful, confusing, or overwhelming, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
If you're feeling unsure about latch, milk transfer, or feeding patterns, reaching out for personalized lactation support can make a big difference. Please feel free to contact me directly if you feel overwhelmed or confused about any of the topics above—I’m here to help you and your baby find a comfortable, sustainable feeding rhythm.
If you are experiencing painful breastfeeding and need guidance, working with a lactation consultant in Los Angeles can help identify the cause and create a personalized feeding plan for you and your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is breastfeeding supposed to hurt?
Some tenderness can occur in the first few days, but ongoing breastfeeding pain is usually a sign that latch or positioning needs adjustment.
How long should breastfeeding hurt?
Most breastfeeding discomfort improves within the first one to two weeks. Persistent pain should be evaluated by a lactation consultant.
Can a shallow latch cause nipple pain?
Yes. A shallow latch places pressure directly on the nipple instead of the breast tissue, which can cause soreness and nipple damage.