Nipple cream for breastfeeding
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- Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream. Best for: A purified lanolin option. See options on Amazon
- Lansinoh Organic Nipple Balm. Best for: A lanolin-free, plant-based balm. See options on Amazon
- Washable nursing pads. Best for: Keeping nipples dry between feeds. See options on Amazon
Why nipples get sore
The OWH says many moms find their nipples feel tender when they first start breastfeeding. The main problem it describes is the latch: a baby should take in most of the areola, not suckle from just the nipple. If your baby latches only onto the nipple, the OWH suggests gently breaking the suction with a clean finger in the corner of the baby's mouth and trying again.
Changing breastfeeding positions at each feeding can also help spread the pressure.
Lanolin cream vs plant-based balm
| Product | Main ingredients | How to use |
|---|---|---|
| Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream | Lanolin (HPA modified lanolin, USP) | Soften a pea-sized amount and apply to the whole nipple area after each feeding or as needed |
| Lansinoh Organic Nipple Balm | Sunflower, olive, coconut and argan oils, beeswax, shea butter, calendula | Apply to the whole nipple area after each feeding or as needed |
| Expressed breast milk | Your own milk | OWH: rub a few drops on nipples after feeding |
Details are from Lansinoh's product pages and the OWH. Both Lansinoh products say there is no need to remove them before breastfeeding.
How to use nipple cream
- Wash your hands first, as both Lansinoh product pages direct.
- Use a small amount. Lansinoh suggests a pea-sized amount of its lanolin, softened between your fingers.
- Apply after feeds or as needed, covering the whole nipple area.
- Choose breastfeeding products. The OWH says to use purified lanolin cream or ointment that is especially made for breastfeeding.
- Check first for other products. The OWH says to ask your doctor or lactation consultant before using other creams, hydrogel pads or nipple shields, since in some cases you should not use these products.
If you have a wool allergy, ask a health professional before using a lanolin product.
Other ways to ease sore nipples
- Air dry. The OWH suggests letting nipples air dry after feeding, or wearing a soft cotton shirt.
- Keep it simple. Clean water is enough; the OWH advises avoiding harsh soaps and astringent ointments.
- Change nursing pads often so moisture does not lead to cracking.
- Avoid tight bras or clothes that press on the nipples.
- Pain relief. For very sore nipples, the OWH says you can ask your doctor about using non-aspirin pain relievers.
For pumping, see our wearable breast pump guide, and for postpartum support, our postpartum belly wrap guide.
Could it be thrush?
The OWH says a key sign of a fungal infection is sore nipples that last more than a few days, even after your baby has a good latch. Other signs include pink, flaky, shiny, itchy or cracked nipples, and achy breasts or shooting pains. Thrush in the baby's mouth, antibiotics or steroids, and some chronic illnesses can make it more likely.
The OWH says fungal infections are treated with a medicine you rub on your breasts several times a day for about a week, and that it may take several weeks to clear up. Boil pacifiers, bottle nipples, toys and breast pump parts that touch milk for about 10 minutes, change disposable nursing pads, and wear a clean bra every day. A nipple cream is not a treatment for thrush, so see your doctor.
When to get help
The OWH says that if you find yourself putting off feedings because breastfeeding is painful, get help from a lactation consultant, because delaying feedings can cause more pain and harm your milk supply. Call your doctor for cracked or bleeding nipples that are not improving, fever, a hot red area on the breast, or signs of thrush.
The OWH breastfeeding helpline is 1-800-994-9662. For baby care, see our infant vitamin D drops guide.
What to look for when you buy
Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream
Best for: A purified lanolin option
Lansinoh lists 100% HPA modified lanolin USP and says it need not be removed before breastfeeding.
Watch out: Ask a professional first if you have a wool allergy.
See options on AmazonLansinoh Organic Nipple Balm
Best for: A lanolin-free, plant-based balm
Lansinoh lists sunflower, olive, coconut and argan oils with beeswax, shea butter and calendula.
Watch out: Check ingredients if you have plant or beeswax sensitivities.
See options on AmazonWashable nursing pads
Best for: Keeping nipples dry between feeds
The OWH suggests changing nursing pads often so moisture does not cause cracking.
Watch out: Change and wash them often, especially with thrush.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- What is the best cream for sore nipples while breastfeeding?
- The OWH suggests purified lanolin cream or ointment made especially for breastfeeding.
- Do I need to wipe off nipple cream before feeding?
- Lansinoh says its lanolin cream and organic balm do not need to be removed before breastfeeding.
- Can I use breast milk on sore nipples?
- Yes. The OWH suggests rubbing a few drops of expressed milk on the nipples after feeding.
- Why are my nipples still sore after a week?
- Check the latch with a lactation consultant; soreness lasting more than a few days with a good latch may be thrush.
- Can I take pain relievers for sore nipples?
- The OWH says you can ask your doctor about using non-aspirin pain relievers.
Sources
- Common breastfeeding challenges (womenshealth.gov), Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- Lanolin Nipple Cream (lansinoh.com), Lansinoh
- Organic Nipple Balm (lansinoh.com), Lansinoh