Why does a mother experience nipple pain while breastfeeding?
Generally, nipple pain during breastfeeding in infants may be caused by factors such as incorrect breastfeeding posture, nipple eczema, or mastitis. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Incorrect breastfeeding posture
When a baby suckles, an improper breastfeeding position may place twisting or pinching pressure on the nipple, leading to discomfort such as stabbing pain, soreness, and burning sensations. It is recommended to align the baby's head and body on the same plane, allowing the baby's lips to gently latch onto the areola so that the nipple can enter deeply into the baby's mouth. This reduces incorrect friction and helps alleviate nipple pain.
2. Nipple eczema
Nipple eczema mainly results from excessive moisture around the nipple combined with irritants such as feces or saliva, causing damage to the skin's keratin layer and inflammatory reactions. Maintaining cleanliness and dryness around the nipple area, while avoiding excessive washing or soaking, can help relieve symptoms.
3. Mastitis
Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue caused by bacterial infection around the nipple. Common symptoms include nipple pain, fever, facial swelling, general malaise, and swollen lymph nodes. Treatment involves timely management of the infection, along with deep physical therapies such as essential oil massage, warm compresses, and manual massage.
Besides the above common causes, nipple fissures may also be responsible. It is advisable to seek prompt medical attention at a hospital to determine the exact cause and receive targeted treatment.