How can mothers effectively prevent sore nipples during breastfeeding?

Ensuring a proper latch is crucial in preventing sore nipples during breastfeeding because a good latch allows the baby to effectively remove milk while minimizing trauma to the nipples. When the baby is latched on correctly, their lips create a seal around the areola, not just the nipple, which distributes the pressure more evenly and reduces friction. A proper latch also encourages the baby to use the right sucking technique, promoting healthy milk flow and decreasing the risk of pain and injury to the nipple area.

Adopting a single breastfeeding position or reducing feeding frequency could lead to discomfort or ineffective feeding, increasing the likelihood of sore nipples. Using nipple shields can be a temporary solution, but if a mother relies on them exclusively, it may not address the underlying issues related to latch technique. Thus, focusing on achieving and maintaining a proper latch is the most effective strategy for preventing sore nipples.