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Breastfeeding is often described as natural, but that doesn’t mean it always feels easy in the beginning. Many parents are surprised to find that breastfeeding can be painful or uncomfortable, especially in the first few weeks.

While some mild tenderness can be normal when feeding is first established, breastfeeding should not continue to be painful. Ongoing pain usually means that something about the feeding is not quite working and can often be improved with the right support.

As an IBCLC lactation consultant in North London, I frequently help families resolve breastfeeding pain so feeding can become more comfortable and enjoyable.

Is breastfeeding pain normal?

In the early days after birth it is common to feel:

• tender nipples
• strong pulling sensations when baby first latches
• increased sensitivity when milk supply is increasing.

However, breastfeeding should not cause ongoing sharp pain, cracking, bleeding, or significant discomfort during feeds.

If feeding continues to hurt, it is worth looking more closely at what might be causing the pain.

Common causes of painful breastfeeding

1. Shallow latch

One of the most common causes of pain is when a baby attaches to the breast with a shallow latch.

This means the baby is mostly on the nipple rather than taking a deeper mouthful of breast tissue.

Signs of a shallow latch can include:

• pinching or sharp pain
• nipples looking flattened after feeds
• clicking sounds during feeding
• baby slipping on and off the breast.

Improving positioning and helping the baby achieve a deeper latch often resolves pain quickly.

2. Positioning difficulties

Small changes in positioning can make a big difference.

Parents often find feeding becomes more comfortable when experimenting with positions such as:

• laid-back feeding
• side-lying feeding
• rugby hold.

These positions can help babies latch more deeply and feed more efficiently.

3. Nipple damage

Cracked or sore nipples are usually a symptom rather than the root problem.

Nipple damage often happens when:

• baby is not well positioned
• the latch is shallow
• baby slips down the nipple during feeding.

Once the underlying cause is addressed, nipples usually begin to heal.

4. Tongue-tie

Sometimes breastfeeding pain is related to restricted tongue movement in the baby.

A tongue-tie may make it harder for babies to maintain a deep latch and can lead to:

• persistent nipple pain
• slow weight gain
• frequent feeds
• clicking sounds during feeding.

An experienced breastfeeding specialist can assess feeding and discuss whether further assessment is helpful.

5. Engorgement or fast milk flow

When milk first comes in, breasts can become very full and firm.

This can make it harder for babies to latch deeply.

Gentle techniques such as hand expressing a small amount of milk before feeding can sometimes help soften the breast and make latching easier.

Signs it might help to seek breastfeeding support

You may benefit from support if:

• breastfeeding remains painful beyond the first few days
• nipples are cracked or bleeding
• your baby seems frustrated or unsettled at the breast
• feeds feel very long or very frequent
• your baby is not gaining weight as expected.

Breastfeeding challenges are extremely common and often improve quickly once the cause is identified.

Getting breastfeeding support

Many breastfeeding problems can be resolved with practical adjustments to positioning, latch, and feeding patterns.

If you would like personalised support, I offer home visit breastfeeding consultations across North London, including:

• Muswell Hill
• Crouch End
• Highgate
• Islington
• Hampstead
• Walthamstow and surrounding areas.

During a consultation we can look closely at feeding together and create a plan that feels manageable for your family.

Final thoughts

Breastfeeding should not be something you have to endure through pain. With the right support, many families find that feeding becomes much more comfortable and enjoyable.

If breastfeeding hurts, it is always worth exploring what might be going on and getting the help you need.