Breastfeeding is a special time, but it isn’t always straightforward. You may find you have sore or even cracked nipples, especially during the early days, when you and your baby are both learning. After all, your sensitive nipples simply aren’t used to the pressure and suction of your baby feeding regularly. Any discomfort should gradually ease – if it doesn’t, seek advice from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist. In the meantime, wearing breast shells (also known as nipple shells) between feeds can help prevent your clothing rubbing against tender nipples while helping to promote healing.

While sensitive or sore nipples are common in new mums, sometimes discomfort can occur because of the position you’re breastfeeding in, or because your baby has a poor breastfeeding latch, so again it’s a good idea to get assessed by a lactation expert or breastfeeding specialist in these circumstances. If you experience bleeding nipples, severe breastfeeding pain, or have symptoms of a breast infection, such as mastitis, it’s important to see your healthcare professional.

• Place the separated breast shell parts in a small pan filled with cold water – distilled is best, but if you use tap water, you can add a teaspoon of citric acid to help avoid limescale from building up.
• Bring the water to the boil, and continue to boil for about five minutes.
• Drain the water away carefully, and leave the breast shell parts to dry on a clean cloth.
• Alternatively, you could use a Medela Quick Clean™ microwave bag.