Breastfeeding does not have to be painful
Have you noticed that when you try to remove your newborn from the breast, whether they are awake or sleeping at the breast (it is their favorite pillow after all), they will bite down to hold onto the breast? That can be a painful experience even if your nipples are not sore; it’s even worse if you have nipple trauma from your little one learning how to latch.
Try The Save The Nipple Technique
To help with a more comfortable removal of the baby from the breast, over the years, I’ve developed a technique called “Save The Nipple”; let’s walk through it step-by-step.
- Before beginning your breastfeeding session, you’ll want to wash your hands with soap and hot water. Also, have a short fingernail on your little finger, no longer than the end of your fingertip to avoid scratching your baby’s mouth, lips, tongue, or your breast/nipple.
- Think “save the nipple” if the latch is painful or if you have to end the feeding for any reason.
- Insert your little finger (with the short nail) into your baby’s mouth with the pad of the finger against your breast.
- Use your finger to slide far enough into your baby’s mouth so that the nipple is covered by your finger.
- Using your fingertip, push the nipple into the breast to keep the baby from biting it. This will leave only your knuckle for biting and will be much less painful.
- Now you can remove the baby from your breast safely and comfortably!
This technique has been taught to, and used by thousands of new mothers, who have found it extremely easy to use and to remember. I hope it will work for you too. If you found this post helpful, then you may also be interested in a previous post with 3 Ways to Prevent Nipple Pain from Breastfeeding.
Don’t forget to share!
SAVE THE NIPPLE!
