Wife needs help.

My wife has just given birth to our second child and it’s the first time she is successfully breastfeeding, latch and all. However, every time she breastfeeds the baby, she is in agonising pain and in tears. She has been pushing through as she has read that this is common for the first 2 weeks or so? Her nipples are sore with a deep acute pain. We have tried everything to reduce the pain including a warm flannel prior to breastfeeding.

She has told me that it doesn’t feel like mastitis, as she experienced mastitis quite heavily with our first.

We are booked to see GP, but this is two weeks away. Any insight on this is greatly appreciated. Has any one had something similar? Is this a normal sensation?

Edit**

Thanks everyone for taking the time out of your day to respond to my post. This is a great community with helpful advice!

I’ve summarised all the points made:

Professional Help:

  • Consult a lactation consultant (IBCLC-certified) to assess latch, tongue/lip ties, and provide tailored advice.

Common Causes:

  • Tongue/Lip/Cheek Ties: Revisions (if required) can improve latch and alleviate pain significantly.

  • Yeast Infection: Shooting pain and white/yellow nipple coating may indicate thrush—consult a doctor.

  • Shallow Latch: Ensure baby’s latch includes the areola, not just the nipple.

  • Skin Sensitivity: Fragile/stretchy skin might require additional care.

Temporary Adjustments:

  • Nipple Shields: Protect nipples and reduce pain during healing. Available online and at most pharmacies; ensure correct sizing for effectiveness.

  • Pumping/Bottle-Feeding: Allow nipples to rest while maintaining milk supply.

  • Hand Expression/Massage: Help empty breasts fully if the baby struggles with latch.

Pain Relief Strategies:

  • Silverettes (Silver Cups): Highly effective for healing and protecting nipples.

  • Nipple Butter: Brands like Earth Mama and Motherlove are recommended for soothing and moisturizing.

  • Cooling Gel Pads: Provide comfort and reduce inflammation between feeds.

  • Booboo Packs (Gel Bead Ice Packs): Great for bruising, swelling, and mastitis relief.

  • Nipple Gel: Aids in managing cracks, blisters, and chapped skin.