Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/16/2025

Management of Nipple Pain During Breastfeeding

Causes of Nipple Pain

  • Zapalenie piersi (mastitis) is a cause of nipple pain during breastfeeding, according to the American College of Radiology 1

First-Line Management

  • Wearing a well-fitting, supportive bra, especially during physical activity, is recommended for managing nipple pain during breastfeeding, as suggested by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, although the specific guideline is from Praxis Medical Insights 2
  • Applying cold or warm compresses can help alleviate nipple pain during breastfeeding, as suggested by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, although the specific guideline is from Praxis Medical Insights 2

Pharmacological Treatment

  • Paracetamol is a safe medication for breastfeeding mothers to use for pain relief, with minimal amounts transferring to breast milk, as stated by the Anaesthesia journal 3
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen are considered safe for use during breastfeeding, as stated by the Anaesthesia journal 3

REFERENCES

1

acr appropriateness criteria<sup>®</sup> breast pain. [LINK]

Journal of the American College of Radiology, 2017

2

Management of Breast Mastalgia [LINK]

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025