Usually, women do face nipple-related pain and other breast-skin issues, for which, the reasons can be varied. This is a common problem but is more prominent in women who have recently given birth to a baby and are breastfeeding. Cracked nipples, hardened nipple skin and dryness of the skin in that region can be painful and cause discomfort, not only in lactating mothers but in general as well.
Dr. Latika Joshi, Senior Pediatrician, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, explains that this condition can definitely be more painful for lactating mothers. But, there can be some other causes too for this condition. Here is what more she explains and the tips she suggests to deal with it.
Causes Of Skin Problems Of The Nipples
- Not cleaning the breasts properly
- Excessive use of alkaline-based soap on the skin around the nipples
- Breastfeeding the baby incorrectly and in the wrong position or the baby biting the mother's nipples while breastfeeding
- Already having some type of skin disease
- Suffering from a health condition like diabetes
- Wiping breasts after taking bath with a thick cloth or towel
- Due to stress
- Digestive problems and lack of nutrients in the body
- Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives
- Hypersensitivity of the skin of the nipples
Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Dry And Cracked Nipples
Dr. Latika Joshi says that since this problem is usually more common in lactating mothers, doctors recommend they opt for common home remedies under normal conditions so that it does not harm the baby while breastfeeding. Normally also, priority is given to home remedies, because they usually do not have any side effects on the skin, especially the skin which is very sensitive. Here are some products that can be used:
- Ghee
Not just in common home remedies, Ayurveda too recommends the use of pure ghee in certain skin-related problems, because it instantly works on retaining the skin moisture. Additionally, it has cleansing and detoxifying properties that are capable of treating mild skin problems. - Massage With Breast Milk
If the baby is not breastfed properly, nipples start getting dry and sore. So, while breastfeeding, the mother can massage her nipples with her own breast milk. Actually, mother’s milk contains compounds that naturally produce moisture in the skin, hence reducing dryness. - Coconut Oil
Similar to ghee, virgin coconut oil also benefits nipples a lot. It is worth noting that in Ayurvedic and traditional practices, coconut oil is considered beneficial in healing any type of wound. Several studies have shown that it contains bioactive compounds and microbial properties that not only speed up skin healing but also protect against various types of infections. - Honey
Dry and cracked skin can be naturally moisturized with the use of honey. Many scientific studies conducted in this regard confirm this. Experts say that honey has powerful anti-bacterial properties, which help in wound healing. Only medical-grade honey should be used for problems related to skin, especially on the nipples, where the skin is more sensitive. - Hot compress
Warm water compresses can also be helpful if the nipples are dry, sore, or itchy.
If The Problem Gets Serious, Seek Medical Advice Immediately
Dr. Latika Joshi tells that if a rash starts appearing around the nipples, during breastfeeding, the bite of the child causes a deep wound on the breast, if there is a lot of pain or if there is pus coming out of the nipples, it is extremely necessary to consult a doctor immediately. Delay in seeking medical help can worsen the problem.
Also Read: Breastfeeding Made Easy With These Mother Friendly Products
