Why does a baby breastfeeding cause nipple pain?
Pain in the nipple while the baby is breastfeeding may be caused by physiological factors, or conditions such as nipple fissures or nipple inflammation. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:
I. Physiological Factors
Incorrect breastfeeding posture can lead to nipple pain, which falls under physiological factors.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Nipple Fissures
Improper breastfeeding techniques or incorrect posture may cause redness and swelling of the nipple, with small cracks on the surface, and even rupture and bleeding. The main symptom is nipple pain, a common condition known as nipple fissures.
2. Nipple Inflammation
During breastfeeding, if the infant's teeth are erupting, they might bite and break the nipple. If the nipple is not cleaned promptly, infection may easily occur, leading to nipple inflammation and resulting in nipple pain.
Besides the above reasons, conditions such as mastitis may also be responsible. It is important to seek prompt medical evaluation at a reputable hospital's gynecology department to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to prevent disease progression. Daily care should include proper local hygiene, wearing breathable underwear, and minimizing irritation and friction to the nipples.