Why breastfeeding hurts and how to fix it

Breastfeeding should feel natural, but for many new mothers, it can be painful — especially in the first days. Nipple soreness, pinching, or sharp discomfort is common and doesn’t mean you’re doing anything “wrong.” Most causes of pain are fixable with small adjustments.
The Thompson Method of breastfeeding focuses on gentle positioning and proper latch techniques, often resolving pain quickly. On this page, we’ll cover the most common causes of breastfeeding pain and simple ways to relieve it, so both you and your baby can enjoy a more comfortable feeding experience.

Common Causes of Breastfeeding Pain

1. Shallow Latch

  • A shallow latch is one of the most frequent causes of nipple pain. If your baby’s lips aren’t flanged properly or their mouth doesn’t cover enough of the areola, you may feel pinching or soreness.
  • How to fix it:

  • Make sure your baby’s mouth covers more of the areola, not just the nipple.
  • Aim for baby’s lips to be over the nipple
Tip: The Thompson Method emphasizes small adjustments to latch position that can relieve pain almost immediately.

2. Poor Positioning

Even with a good latch, discomfort can can if positioning isn't quite right. The key is alignment and comfort for both you and your baby. With the Thompson Method, we focus on keeping things simple and effective, using the cradle hold as a reliable, comfortable position for most mothers.
Cradle Hold Hold your baby across your body, supporting them so their head, neck and spine are in a straight line.
Quick adjustment: Bring your baby in close so you are tummy-to-tummy, with their body facing yours. You should feel relaxed, supported and free from strain.

3. Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie

If your baby struggles to stay latched, clicks while feeding, or feeds inefficiently, a tongue-tie or lip-tie may be the cause. What to do:
  • The Thompson Method can often improve attachment
  • Ensure that lips are over nipple with the chin indented in the breast, cheeks touch the breast and the top lip sealing the nipple

4. Engorgement or Oversupply

Painful, hard breasts may indicate engorgement or oversupply.
Relief tips:
  • Aim for 7 feeds in 24 hrs and offer both breasts with each feed
  • Use a warm compress before feeding
  • Gentle breast compression if breast fill full between breastfeeds

5. Other Medical Causes

Cracked nipples, clogged ducts, mastitis, or infections can also cause pain. Persistent or severe symptoms should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Immediate Relief Tips (Quick Wins)
  • Apply a warm compress before feeds to soften the breast
  • Use gentle breast compression
  • Adjust baby’s head angle mid-feed if needed
  • Take short breaks and relax between feeds
Small adjustments often make a big difference. Many mothers notice relief after a single session using the Thompson Method.

When to Seek Help

Contact a healthcare professional if:
  • Pain continues after several feeds
  • Nipples are cracked, bleeding, or blistered
  • You notice signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or fever
Breastfeeding pain is common but fixable. With the right positioning, latch, and support, most mothers find feeding becomes comfortable and enjoyable.

Personalised support works

A short consultation with a Thompson Method Practitioner can often resolve pain in 1-2 sessions.
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