Why are my nipples sore?

by Lucy
(Bedfordshire UK)

I have been breastfeeding for a week now while my baby seems to be getting enough and latching on but My nipples have become very sore and are now painful even after feeding. I have tried to get more nipple into her mouth but my nipples are very flat and i can't seem to do it. Can you help?

Answer from the lactation consultant
Latch is one of those issues that cannot be resolved via text.
However, I can review a few things to make sure the soreness is not from something else.
1. Have your nipples hurt from the start or is this new?
2. Are both nipples hurting or just one?
3. Do they hurt like a deep bruise or are do you have a burning pain?
4. Have you checked the babies mouth for possible thrush?
5. Are you alternating positions with each feed?
6. When did your milk come in?
7. How often is the baby eating?
Answer these questions and we will go from there.
Liz, RN, IBCLC
You can answer these as a comment.