Friction blisters on your breasts and nipples can be painful and interfere with breastfeeding. Try these strategies to help prevent friction blisters from forming. If you aren’t sure how to tell if your baby is latching on correctly, ask for assistance from your doctor, a lactation consultant, or a local breastfeeding group. Learn how to latch your baby on in the cross-cradle hold, football hold, side-lying, and laid-back nursing positions so that you have a variety of options. If you have trouble remembering which breast to begin the next feeding on, try using strategies to help remind yourself. It’s also important that the flanges (shields) of your breast pump fit you well. Depending on the size of your nipples, you may need to use a different size flange. If the pump shield is too small, it could cause pain and rubbing that could lead to sore nipples and blisters. When used incorrectly, a nipple shield can cause damage to your breasts and have a negative impact on breastfeeding.
