Breastfeeding can be intensely painful during the initial days and weeks primarily due to an improper or shallow infant latch. When a baby only takes the tip of the nipple into their mouth instead of drawing a large portion of the lower areola deep inside, their gums and tongue compress the delicate nipple tissue directly against the hard palate, causing friction, bruising, cracked skin, and severe pain. Other contributing factors include infant tongue-ties, engorged breasts that flatten the nipple, and hypersensitivity as the skin adjusts to nursing. Ensuring a wide-open mouth and proper tummy-to-tummy alignment resolves pain and protects maternal nipple health.
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