There could be a couple of things going on.  One being that breastfeeding is hard and takes a while to become comfortable for some (10 weeks for us).  Secondly, it's possible to have thrush in your nipples.  It doesn't always present with symptoms you can see.  Your LC should have ruled this out.  If the pain is like sharp, stabbing feelings deep into your breast then this is likely.  Several ways to get rid of it, but check with your LC what's best for you.  Thirdly, your little angel could be tongue tied.  My son was and it was awful.  5 LC's missed it, it was only slightly, but enough to make attachment for him a nightmare and painful for me.  If you live in Melbourne, try Dr Lisa AMIR in Lonsdale Street (Medical one).  An hour appt will clear up any possible medical issues. 

It can take 6+ weeks for your nipples to "adjust".  If you can, stick in there but don't start guilt tripping yourself if you decide to go onto a bottle. 

Hi!  Well done for getting this far!  From experience, I would say

1) check attachment - I found once we had it right the pain stopped (and I was like you in tears every feed) - and maybe try different positions

2) nipple shields, if you are really struggling

3) leave a little breastmilk on the nipple after feeding, but at the same time, change breastpads regularly

4) creams - lanolin or pawpaw cream (buy at the chemist) - also double check there is no thrush (if so use thrush cream)

5) take a panadol before a feed

6) don't dry out the nipple - don't use soap in the shower on them and use one of the above creams to keep them soft

7) try airing them out a bit (when no-one is around) - apparently sunlight helps a lot if you're game (but not too much)

& have a look here.  I'll try to think what else helped, but Minti mail me with any questions...

I've written an article on the pain of breastfeeding.  it talks about the soreness of the nipples caused by the sucking motion and saliva of your baby.  I'll but the article in the related content section under your question.

You say you have tried creams etc, but give the lanolin products a go.  I don't know which country you are in, but here in Australia, the brands of purified lanolin that I have come across are Marcalan (which I am currently using) and Lansinoh (more expensive).

The reason why purified lanolin works really well is because it conditions and moisurises the nipples, it provides a protective barrier against bubs saliva and it can actually help with attatchment issues too.  That is to say, it helps to provide a better grip on the nipple for a baby still on their training wheels with breastfeeding.

Lanolin is a natural product derived from the wool of sheep.  It is low allergin and doesn't need washing off before a feed.  A little of this product goes a long way, so a large tube will last several months and it won't go off either.

Hang on in there if you can. Get as much advice about positioning as is available, as this will help. It took 6 weeks for my DD1 to stop hurting, but much less with my DD2. But it was so worth it. Good luck!

I had this problem with my first child.  I also used the nipple shield and it worked wonderfully.  About 2 weeks after the birth, I didn't need them anymore.  I was able to nurse until 14 months without a problem and didn't have any pain problems with the subsequent children.  Hang in there!!!

Hi honey,

I feel your pain as do many other mums . . OUCHY . . .

There are three things that come to mind, Nipple shields and Cold Cabbage leafs Daktarin oral Gel.. . .

Nipple shields are available at most pharmacies and you place them on your nipple and feed as normal . .  The sheild acts as a guards between your sore nipples and your bubs hungry mouth . .

This gel is usually used for thrush on nipples when breastfeeding and it will not hurt bub . .  Even though it's main use is for thrush there are many women who swear by it in relation to just having sore nipples . .

FINALLY COLD cabbage leave . . Store them in the fridge and after each feed place a cold cabbage leave in your bra . . There is a chemical that is released by the cabbage that is very soothing for sore nipples . . .

Good luck honey and I hope it all settles down for you . .

Cheers Kellz

i tried breastfeeding both of my kids, and only made it 3 weeks with the first and 5 with the second. i guess i'm not as tough as these other moms but it just wasn't right for me. i went through natural labour and birth, but can't handle the pain of breastfeeding. thats a sign to me that its not for me. i really wanted to be successful, and i tried really hard. especiall with the 2nd, but it was too much. i cried everytime they latched on. the specialist and the dr both said i was doing everything right i just had to tough it out. but i couldn't. i felt like a failure at first, but both of my kids thrived on formula and their both big, and healthy andsuper smart! my two year old actually has an above average IQ for her age. so if you feel like its not right for you, dont feel pressure. you're the mom and you get to choose what is best- for the both of you.

I agree - try the lanolin.  You are doing great!  It does hurt in the beginning because your nipples are getting used to being sucked on 24/7.  The first few weeks will hurt but it will get better.  If it doesn't or gets worse go see you Dr or see a lactation specials to make sure the baby is latching on correctly.  Remember to relax and enjoy.  I breastfed two babies both 15 months each.  It isn't always easy but it is SO worth it.  Stick it out.  You can do it.

hey there

have you tried lanolin? it helps alot.

plus try some breastfeeding shields for awhile untill they are feeling better.

dont worry its all normal and alot of mums have this prob in the beginning

good luck!