Why Does My Nipple Hurt While Pumping?

The pain you feel while pumping isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it could be your body sending an important signal. Ignoring it could lead to bigger issues, so understanding why it happens and what to do about it is crucial.

At first, the excitement of breastfeeding or pumping can make the discomfort seem tolerable. But if your nipples hurt every time you pump, this is something you shouldn’t overlook. Let’s dive into the possible reasons for the pain and how you can resolve it. In this article, I’ll cover everything from pump settings to skin conditions, and yes, even emotional factors that can make this seemingly routine task much more challenging than expected.

1. Incorrect Pump Flange Size

You might not realize it, but the size of your pump flange could be causing you more pain than you expect. The flange is the part of the pump that fits over your nipple and areola. If it’s too small, it will pinch your nipple, causing discomfort. If it’s too large, it may fail to properly suction the milk, leading to inefficient pumping and chafing. Ensuring the flange fits just right is the first step to avoiding nipple pain.

How to Check Your Flange Size:

• Your nipple should move freely in the tunnel without excessive rubbing against the sides.
• There should be no redness, swelling, or visible irritation after pumping.

Actionable Tip: Measure your nipple diameter and find the correct size flange (usually a couple of millimeters larger than your actual nipple size).

2. Suction Settings Too High

It’s tempting to think that higher suction means more milk, but turning the suction level too high can actually harm your nipples. The intense suction can cause soreness, especially if used over long periods.

Most electric pumps have adjustable suction settings, and many mothers find relief when they turn the suction down a bit. It’s better to pump for a longer time at a comfortable suction level than to rush the process and suffer the consequences.

Adjust Your Pump’s Suction:

• Start at the lowest setting and gradually increase until you find a comfortable yet effective level.
• You should feel gentle pulling but no sharp pain or pinching.

3. Thrush or Infection

If your nipples feel painful, especially during or after pumping, you might be dealing with a yeast infection, commonly known as thrush. Thrush can lead to sharp, shooting pains in the nipples, and this discomfort doesn’t always go away once you stop pumping. The infection thrives in moist environments, making it more common among breastfeeding mothers or those who pump regularly.

Symptoms of Thrush:

• Intense pain that continues after pumping.
• White, cottage cheese-like patches in your baby’s mouth (since thrush can be passed back and forth between mother and baby).
• Itchiness or redness around the nipples.

If you suspect thrush, consult your doctor to get a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

4. Dry Skin and Cracked Nipples

Dryness, especially in colder climates or from over-washing, can leave your nipples prone to cracking. These cracks can deepen and worsen with each pumping session, making the pain unbearable. Regular use of a nipple balm or cream can help moisturize the skin and reduce friction during pumping.

Preventing Dryness:

• Use a nipple cream specifically designed for breastfeeding or pumping mothers.
• Avoid using soaps with harsh chemicals that could dry out your skin.
• Try not to over-wash the area; gentle rinsing with water is sufficient.

5. Stress and Emotional Impact

Believe it or not, your mental state plays a significant role in how much pain you experience. Stress and anxiety can increase your sensitivity to pain, making it feel worse than it actually is. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the demands of pumping or breastfeeding, your body might respond by making the experience more painful.

Ways to Reduce Stress While Pumping:

• Create a relaxing pumping environment, such as listening to soothing music or meditating during your session.
• Take deep breaths to calm your nervous system before and during pumping.
• Don’t rush the process; take your time.

6. Improper Pump Maintenance

Sometimes the problem isn’t your body at all—it’s the pump. Worn-out pump parts or a poorly functioning machine can make pumping unnecessarily painful. Over time, the silicone parts of the pump can wear down, and the suction may weaken or become uneven, leading to discomfort.

How to Maintain Your Pump:

• Check the pump parts regularly for wear and tear.
• Replace any parts that seem damaged or overused.
• Ensure the tubing is free from blockages or kinks, as this can affect the suction power.

Conclusion: Finding Relief from Pumping Pain

Nipple pain during pumping is more than just a nuisance—it can make an already demanding experience feel overwhelming. But by taking the time to assess your equipment, flange size, and suction levels, and by paying attention to your body, you can significantly reduce the discomfort.

Don’t hesitate to consult a lactation consultant or healthcare provider if the pain persists. Remember, pain is not normal and should not be part of your daily pumping routine.

Incorporating these solutions can make your pumping experience far more enjoyable, or at the very least, less painful. You deserve a breastfeeding journey that’s as comfortable and stress-free as possible, and sometimes, small adjustments make all the difference.