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Nipple cracks appear especially in the first weeks of breastfeeding due to the baby's improper attachment to the breast. It can be suspected that the baby is holding the breast incorrectly when the nipple is crushed when it stops breastfeeding. If it is wrinkled, it is very likely that the handle is incorrect and that the next day there will be cracks and bleeding.
To cure cracked and bleeding nipples, you must continue breastfeeding, but always check that the baby is making the correct grip. It is important to continue breastfeeding if there are cracks or bleeding because breast milk itself is an excellent natural remedy to heal cracked nipples.
If the baby has candidiasis in the mouth, which is very common, the fungus candida albicans it can pass to the mother's nipple, she can have candidiasis in the breast, in which case the pain in the nipple becomes even greater in the form of a stinging or deep burning sensation in the first minutes of breastfeeding, and remains until after the baby finishes breastfeeding. But that pain comes up again or gets worse whenever the baby sucks, making it very uncomfortable for the woman. Find out if in addition to the crack you may have candidiasis in the breast and what to do to heal faster.
What to pass in the nipples
In order to heal the crack in the nipple faster, it is advisable that whenever the baby finishes breastfeeding, a few drops of the milk itself is passed over the entire nipple, allowing it to dry naturally. This step is very important because the milk is very moisturizing and has everything the skin needs to heal itself.
Do about 15 minutes of top lessdaily, during the breastfeeding period, is also a great way to protect the nipples and fight the cracks, but the most appropriate time to expose yourself in this way in the sun is in the morning, before 10 am or after 4 pm, because it is I need to be without sunscreen.
In the bath it is recommended to pass only water and soap on the breast and then dry with gentle movements, using a soft towel. Next, breastfeeding discs must be placed inside the bra as this helps to keep the nipples more comfortable and dry, preventing infections.
In some cases, especially when the nipples are severely cracked and bleeding, the doctor may also prescribe the use of a lanolin ointment that should be applied to the nipple when you are finished breastfeeding. This ointment can be purchased at any pharmacy and must be removed with a cotton pad soaked in water, before placing the baby to breastfeed.
See also some home remedies for breast cracks.
What not to pass on the nipples
It is contraindicated to pass alcohol, mertiolate or any other disinfectant substance on the nipples during the breastfeeding phase, so as not to harm the baby. It is also not recommended to use bepantol, glycerin or petroleum jelly.
When there are changes such as sore nipples, what should be done is to continue breastfeeding, taking care to check that the baby is breastfeeding in the correct position and pass only breast milk or lanolin ointment on the nipple.
Can I continue breastfeeding?
Yes, it is recommended that the woman continue breastfeeding because the milk does not accumulate causing even more pain. The milk and a small amount of blood can be ingested by the baby without any problem, but if you are bleeding a lot you should inform the pediatrician.
When breastfeeding it is very important to ensure that you are breastfeeding properly, as this is one of the main causes of the appearance of cracks in the nipple. See our breastfeeding guide with step by step instructions to breastfeed correctly.
How to avoid nipple cracks
To avoid cracking the nipples during breastfeeding, it is recommended to follow some simple tips:
- Pass a little milk over the nipple and areola, pressing lightly on each nipple until a little milk comes out after finishing breastfeeding;
- Avoid the use of creams or ointments on the nipples, using only if there are cracks and under medical guidance;
- Use a nipple protector inside the bra and always wear a good breastfeeding bra, as the wrong number can impair the production and withdrawal of milk;
- Remove the bra and expose the breasts to the sun for a few minutes to keep the nipples always very dry, since the humidity also favors the proliferation of fungi and bacteria.
The cracks are not caused by the time it takes the baby to breastfeed, but by the dryness of the baby's skin and the "bad grip" on the areola, so this situation should be corrected quickly. The doctor or nurse can help facilitate the baby's holding and thus improve the milk flow and avoid the discomfort that cracks can cause.