06/08/2025
Ouch!!! Is Breastfeeding Supposed to Hurt?
The short answer? No, it shouldn’t.
Many of us have heard it before:
“Your ni***es are just sensitive.”
“It’ll get better in two weeks, they just need to toughen up.”
Sound familiar? You’re not alone, but that doesn’t make it true.
If breastfeeding makes your toes curl, or feels like your baby has a mouthful of needles and broken glass, please know that this is not normal and there is help available.
Some common causes of painful feeding include:
• Shallow latch
• Oral restrictions (like tongue/lip/buccal ties)
• Weak suck
• Mouth-to-nipple mismatch
• Baby feeling unsupported (triggering the Moro reflex)
… and more.
Try this quick guide: Think CHINS
👉 Close – Keep your baby close, no gaps between your bodies
👉 Head Free – Don’t hold their head while feeding
👉 Inline – Head, neck, and body should be in a straight line
👉 Nose to Ni**le – Helps baby tilt their head for a deeper latch
👉 Supported – Use cushions, pillows, or arm support to make sure both of you are comfortable
Need more help? You're not alone.
Book a session with Michelle, our warm and experienced IBCLC Lactation Consultant. She’s here to support your feeding goals — no judgment, just empowerment.
Get in touch today to book an appointment -
https://paediatricdiagnostics.com/contact-us/
💙 Let’s make feeding a more comfortable, confident experience for you and your baby.
