"Breastfeeding isn't supposed to be painful" is a lie. The truth? During your first week of breastfeeding, your nipples are not going to feel fantastic. There will be some pain and discomfort, particularly if it's your first baby. But, here's the good news, 1) these 3 *amazing* products helped me immensely during my first week of breastfeeding, and 2) breastfeeding does get easier & less painful with time for most women.
If you're having persistent discomfort after that first few days to week(s), then I absolutely recommend seeing a lactation consultant (LC) to assess the latch, nipple issues, tongue tie, etc. Actually, even if you're now pain-free, I often still recommend consulting with a LC because they have tons of helpful advice. Not all LC's are created equal but once you find one that's flexible, kind, and reasonable they will be your best friend (or "breast friend" LOL!) postpartum.
As promised, here are my 3 must-have products for getting new moms through that first week of breastfeeding. I would 100% recommend packing all of these in your hospital bag.
Disclosure: This article includes affiliate links and I may earn commission through the use of these Amazon links. I have personally tried all of these products and would recommend them without hesitation.
While Silverettes may sound like a 1950s doo-wop group, these adorable silver nipple hats are a blessing for your traumatized nipples. There is something about the magic healing powers of silver that really does the trick.
While not the cheapest item on the list (I mean, hello, it's silver), with multiple 5-star reviewes on Amazon, they're totally worth the money!
In my opinion, if you were only going to select 1 item from this list, let it be the silverettes. They don't stain your clothes and are reusable. Simply wash them with warm water and dish soap and let them air dry. Some women find them uncomfortable overnight but I wore them day & night without issue. They tucked right into my Kindred Bravely nursing tanks (the softest ones ever, I am obsessed with these and bought multiple).
Sandra, my wonderful postpartum nurse, hooked me up with these... and OMG they felt like heaven! I almost cried from relief when I first applied them. You can even put them in the fridge for even better soothing. Cutting them in half will also stretch 1 box a bit longer.
While these were clutch during my first week of breastfeeding (my baby girl had a lip tie and gave me some really fun blood blisters on my nipples - YOWCH!), I felt like I no longer needed them after 1-2 weeks. I did keep using my silverettes for much longer.
Each box does have a good shelf life (over 2 years I believe), so I ended up saving any extra packages for baby #2.
There are many a nipple soothing salve on the market, but Earth Mama's nipple butter actually has healing properties.
So, I would purchase this one over some of the other ones out there. It's not greasy but I felt like I needed to wear breast pads to protect my beloved Kindred Bravely nursing tanks.
Honorable mention: Hydrocolloid Bandages
Hydrocolloid bandages didn't make my top 3, BUT...these were great for protecting my split/torn skin (sorry to get graphic) caused by improper pump flange size. I kept them on for future pumping sessions and while breastfeeding baby girl. To keep it sanitary, I changed mine out 2-3 times per day.
Wishing you a successful breastfeeding journey & happier nipples along the way!
XOXO,
Dr. Means