It's All About Nipple Cremes And Ointments While Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is best for your baby. Getting a good latch is important, however, sometimes that doesn't always go so well and your nipples crack. That is when you need to decide whether you should call your doctor, OB/GYN and decide together which cream is right for your situation. Creams that you apply to your nipple while you breastfeed, may get ingested by your baby. Lanolin creme is safe while breastfeeding. Lanolin can be applied before and after pumping and after every feeding session if desired. If you are in excruciating pain with cracked nipples, they may be infected. Neosporin, Triple Ointment or Bacitracin may help.Apply these ointments after feeding. If this does not work after a few days, you need to call your doctor. In my private practice, I see a lot of cracked nipples. I actually decided to write this blog because I have had a week of patients with lots of cracked nipples. In my private practice, I see a lot of this. If your nipples are bleeding, you need a rest from breastfeeding. You will have to pump a few sessions until your nipples stop bleeding. Then resume breastfeeding. Sometimes, yeast can infect nipple tissues. When you nipples are cracked, yeast can enter. You can call a Lactation Consultant to help you figure out what is going on. As a Lactation Consultant, I do not prescribe medications, therefore, you need to call a doctor if you feel you have an infection. Your doctor will prescribe an antibacterial creme.Dr. Jack Newman has suggested an all purpose creme for nipples that are cracked and bleeding. It is a combination of two antifungal ingredients, one antibacterial ointment, and one steroid. Please call your doctor before using this. (I personally feel it is too strong and not healthy to use). The simplest and healthiest way to treat cracked nipples is using your own breast milk. Additionally, you need to let cracked, bleeding nipples air out. Yesterday, as I was helping one of my patients who had a cracked nipple, we both started singing and made up our own song, It's all about the latch........to the tune of ,It's all about the bass song. This is true. If you have a good latch, your nipples will not get cracked. In conclusion, I am sorry you are suffering. I know cracked nipples can be painful because I experienced this myself while breastfeeding.Ask a Lactation Consultant or your doctor which ointment is right for you. Good luck. I hope you feel better real soon and enjoy breastfeeding your baby.