When Breastfeeding Hurts: How We Worked Through It Together
If you're experiencing painful, damaged nipples and wondering whether breastfeeding will ever feel comfortable again, this story is for you.
CLIENT PROFILE
Audrey, a second-time mum in her early 30s | Pre-school teacher in Singapore | Baby 9 days old | Breastfeeding but experiencing cracked and damaged nipples
SERVICE RENDERED
Postnatal Breastfeeding Consult
(This service included a 1:1 home consultation to observe feeds and create a plan, plus one week of support via WhatsApp to check in on progress, all in Singapore.)
AUDREY’S FIRST WEEK WITH HER NEWBORN HAD BEEN REALLY TOUGH.
She wanted to breastfeed, but every feed had become something she dreaded. Her nipples were red, sore, and bleeding. Each time her baby latched, it felt like an uphill battle.
Like many mums I work with, she'd started using bottles—not because that's what she'd planned, but because direct breastfeeding had become too painful to keep going.
WHAT DID OUR WORK LOOK LIKE
When I visited Audrey's home, we took a gentle, practical approach that focused on healing and rebuilding her confidence:
We watched a feed together to see exactly what was causing her pain
Made small adjustments to how she and baby fit together
Created a tailored plan to rest and heal her nipples while protecting her milk supply
Found flexible feeding options so she could take short breaks from direct feeds when needed, while still staying connected with her baby
After our visit, we stayed in touch through WhatsApp for the week. I checked in regularly, we worked through any bumps along the way, and celebrated the small wins.
THE OUTCOME
Over the week, things gradually improved.
The constant pain eased as her nipples healed. Feeds became more comfortable—the kind of experience she'd hoped for from the start.
By the end of our time together, Audrey had got to a place that initially felt out of reach:
Breastfeeding directly without bottles
Feeding without wincing or pain
Feeling relaxed and confident again
She messaged me to say:
“Thank you for your time and support. I’m latching exclusively now.
I’m glad latching is a lot more comfortable than before too and that he’s willing to latch again."
WHAT STOOD OUT TO ME
You know what I love most about stories like Audrey's? It's seeing that moment when everything starts to click.
For Audrey, we didn't rush anything. We took our time, made small adjustments to her positioning, and found what worked specifically for her body and her baby. Those little tweaks made such a big difference!
I remember when she messaged me about her first completely comfortable feed – I was so happy I kind of wanted to high-five her through the screen! Because that's the thing: breastfeeding shouldn't hurt. Not every mum knows that, but it's true.
Sometimes all it takes is someone to watch what's happening, suggest a few personalised adjustments, and stay with you until things improve. No magic formula, just practical support when you need it most.
This case study was built on a conversation with this specific client, going through our work together.
Anything in quotes is a word-for-word statement said by the client on a recorded call or in feedback.
STRUGGLING WITH PAINFUL FEEDS?
If you're experiencing discomfort while feeding or just need some reassurance, I'm here to help. Every mother's journey is different, and together we can find what works for you and your baby.
I'll come to your home where you and baby are most comfortable, and you'll have me in your corner for a full week afterward via WhatsApp. No judgment, just practical support when you need it most.
