Prevention of sore nipples

Make sure the baby is sucking in the right way. If the sucking hurts, place your baby in the right position.

Allow the nipples to dry between feedings.

Feed the baby, first with the nipple that is less sore. The baby's sucking may be less vigorous after the first few minutes.

Change nursing positions.

Wash the nipples daily with warm water and dry it properly.

Express milk until the letdown reflex occurs. This will help make the milk more available so the baby sucks less hard.

Mastitis is the inflammation of breast tissue. It can occur due to the cracked nipple or blocked ducts. If left unattended this leads to abscess formation, which may require surgical intervention. Untreated mastitis can cause other infections also which can be very painful. Feeding the baby and thus draining the breasts to prevent breast engorgement is the best way to prevent it. If any signs of it are noticed, consult your doctor immediately.