To alleviate nipple pain during breastfeeding, what should be considered?

Assessing feeding technique for proper latch is essential to alleviate nipple pain during breastfeeding. A proper latch ensures that the baby is positioned correctly at the breast, which helps minimize friction and trauma to the nipple. When a baby latches well, it creates a seal that helps them effectively draw milk while reducing the likelihood of pain for the mother. Factors such as the positioning of the baby, the alignment of the breast, and how much of the areola is taken into the baby's mouth all contribute to a more comfortable feeding experience.

In contrast, applying formula after feeding does not address the root cause of nipple pain and may lead to other difficulties such as reduced milk supply. Increasing bottle feeding does not provide the necessary stimulation required for maintaining breastfeeding and could further exacerbate nipple issues if the baby becomes more accustomed to feeding from a bottle. Changing to a cow's milk diet is inappropriate for infants, particularly those under one year of age, and does not relate to the nipple pain experienced during breastfeeding. Focusing on the latch effectively addresses the problem at its source, promoting both comfort and successful breastfeeding.