It should not hurt to breastfeed your baby! Having a good latch is key to pain-free breastfeeding, building and maintaining a good milk supply, and making sure that your baby gets enough to eat.
When your baby is positioned well at the breast, your nipple is far back in your baby's mouth, where it triggers your baby's sucking reflex. We call this area in your baby's mouth "the comfort zone." Click here for some videos of a good latch.
Poor latch can also be caused by engorgement, tongue tie, or nipple blebs.
Nipple and breast pain can also be caused by blocked ducts, mastitis, yeast and bacterial infections. Once these infections are treated, pain should subside.
If you are still having pain after trying these suggestions, please contact a local La Leche League Leader or Lactation Consultant in your area. To find a local lactation specialist: