Cracked nipples

Cracked nipples: Treatment and prevention

Cracks, soreness and wounds on the nipples are, unfortunately, a common problem that can turn breastfeeding into a painful ordeal. This is not an isolated symptom, but the result of continuous trauma to the delicate skin, most often due to improper latching by the baby. Ignoring this problem can lead not only to severe pain but also to serious complications.

Why do cracks occur?

The main cause is improper latching. When the baby takes only the tip of the nipple, it literally "chews" it with its gums and hard palate. This creates excessive friction and pressure, leading to skin damage. Other contributing factors include:

• Improper use of a breast pump (excessively high suction power or an incorrectly sized flange).
• Short tongue tie in the baby.
• Candida infection (thrush), which makes the skin more vulnerable.

The danger of cracks: "gateway" for infection

Cracked nipples are not just painful. They are open wounds through which bacteria from the skin or the baby’s oral cavity can easily enter the mammary gland. This greatly increases the risk of developing bacterial mastitis — inflammation and infection of breast tissue that requires antibiotic treatment.

Therefore, the main task is not just to treat the wounds but to eliminate the cause of their occurrence. Consulting a lactation specialist to correct the latch is the most important step. Read about the basics of breastfeeding and proper technique in our guide.