sore cracked nipples (breast feeding)

Last reviewed 01/2018

Nipple soreness and cracked nipples are most often caused by trauma due to incorrect positioning and poor attachment of the baby during breastfeeding (1).

Sore or cracked nipples may result in excruciating pain and will often discourage the mother to breastfeed (2).

Some other causes of sore nipples are:

• eczema, impetigo, dermatitis
• candidal infection
• taking baby off the breast without breaking the suction
• Raynauds syndrome in mother
• bacterial infection
• white spots on nipple (2)
• long intervals between nursing (2)

Notes:

• white spot at the end of the nipple (3)
  • is usually about 1 mm in diameter
  • overgrowth of epithelium (which forms a blister), or an accumulation of fatty or particulate material is considered to be the cause
  • can be very painful during suckling
  • removal of the white spot by use of a sterile needle or rubbing with a towel results in quick relief of the obstruction (1)

Reference:

• 1. Leung AK, Sauve RS. Breast is best for babies. J Natl Med Assoc. 2005;97(7):1010-9
• 2. NHS Sheffield 2009. Section 1: Breastfeeding
• 3. World Health Organisation (WHO) 2000. Mastitis. Causes and management