Sore nipples can feel like burning, tenderness, dryness, or a stinging pain, and it can affect both daily life and breastfeeding. Fortunately, it is often due to something that can be remedied with simple adjustments and gentle care. Here you will find practical guidance on the most common causes, what you can do yourself, and when it is a good idea to seek help.

Soreness can occur when the skin becomes irritated or exposed to friction. This can be, for example, from a bra, sports activity, sweat, detergents, or skin products with perfume. Some also experience sore nipples during periods of hormonal changes, e.g., leading up to menstruation, during pregnancy, or at the beginning of the breastfeeding period.

Try to identify the most likely trigger:

• Switch to perfume-free detergent and avoid fabric softener on underwear
• Choose soft, breathable materials and a fit without unnecessary friction
• Keep skin dry and change damp pads/textiles quickly

During breastfeeding, sore nipples are often associated with the baby's sucking technique and latch. If the baby only latches onto the tip of the nipple, it can cause pain and sores. The goal is typically for the baby to take a good mouthful of breast, so the load is distributed.

• Try a new breastfeeding position so that the baby's body is close to yours
• Aim for a deep latch: the baby's mouth opens wide, and the chin comes close to the breast
• Gently break the vacuum (e.g., with a finger at the corner of the mouth) if it hurts, and try again

If the pain continues for several days or you develop sores, a health visitor, midwife, or lactation consultant can often help quickly with specific corrections.

Some symptoms may point to more than ordinary friction. Cracks, redness, warmth, swelling, or weeping skin may indicate irritation, dermatitis, or infection. Thrush (candida) can also cause persistent stinging and soreness, and during breastfeeding, both mother and baby can sometimes have symptoms simultaneously.

Seek evaluation if you experience:

• Increasing pain, fever, or obvious redness/warmth in the breast
• Pus, yellowish scabs, or rapidly worsening sores
• Persistent burning pain that does not improve with adjustments and gentle care

For sore nipples, relief often involves protecting the skin and giving it rest:

• Air dry the nipple after breastfeeding or bathing, if possible
• Avoid scrubbing the area dry with a towel
• Use soft textiles and change quickly if anything gets damp
• When breastfeeding: ensure that any cream is suitable for use during breastfeeding and always follow the instructions for use

If you use nursing pads, it can help to choose a solution that feels soft against the skin and to change them often to avoid moisture and friction.

Prevention is especially about minimizing friction and moisture and ensuring good support.

• Choose a bra that supports without pinching and allows for changes in the breast (especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding)
• Avoid underwired bras during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as pressure can irritate breast tissue and milk ducts
• Look for recurring patterns: Does soreness occur after certain activities, products, or breastfeeding positions?

A small change in fit or routine can be enough to break a vicious circle.

If your sore nipples are related to friction or the need for soft support during the breastfeeding period, it may make sense to look at a comfortable nursing bra without metal parts and with flexible support, such as the Gel-Support® maternity and nursing bra. For leakage or moisture that can worsen irritation, washable cotton pads can also be a gentle solution, e.g., Washable 6x Cotton Breast Pads.

If you are in doubt about the cause of your sore nipples, or if the symptoms do not subside, it is very relevant to get a professional assessment so you get the right help early on.