How to Relieve Breast Pain & Tenderness in Postpartum

That aching, throbbing feeling in your breasts after the baby arrives? Yep—totally normal, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it.

After birth, your breasts are working overtime: milk is coming in, hormones are shifting, and the baby is learning to latch. It’s a lot.

If you're feeling sore, tender, or even engorged, you're not alone—and there are gentle ways to feel better. Let’s break it all down and get you some relief. 

Why Are My Breasts So Sore After Birth?

Postpartum breast pain is super common, especially in the first few weeks. It’s usually caused by:

• Engorgement (when your milk first comes in)
• Poor latch or feeding position
• Clogged ducts or early signs of mastitis
• Hormonal shifts causing tenderness
• Incorrect bra size or lack of support

Knowing why you’re sore can help you treat it more effectively and avoid unnecessary pain.

Tips to Relieve Breast Pain & Tenderness

Here’s what you can do at home to ease that discomfort:

1. Warm compresses before feeding
   1. Apply a warm cloth or take a warm shower before nursing. This helps stimulate milk flow and relaxes breast tissue.
2. Cold packs after feeding
   1. Reduce swelling and inflammation with cool gel packs or chilled cabbage leaves (yes, really!). Use for 10–15 minutes between feeds.
3. Gentle breast massage
   1. Massage gently in a circular motion toward the nipple during and after feeds to help with drainage and reduce pressure.
4. Nurse or pump frequently
   1. Engorgement worsens when milk stays in the breasts too long. Feed the baby or pump every 2–3 hours.
5. Check the baby’s latch & position
   1. A shallow latch can lead to nipple pain and poor drainage. Try different breastfeeding positions until you find what’s comfortable for both of you.
6. Wear a supportive, wire-free bra
   1. A soft, stretchy maternity bra like Bloom & Heal’s gently supports without squeezing sensitive areas. Adjustable and wire-free = postpartum comfort! 
7. Consider pain relief
   1. If needed, talk to your doctor about using ibuprofen or acetaminophen (both are generally safe while breastfeeding).

Prevention Tips for the Future

• Avoid tight bras or clothing that press against your breasts.
• Feed the baby before you become overly full.
• Stay hydrated and nourished—your body needs energy to heal and feed.
• Rotate nursing positions to prevent clogging in one area.

Mama, You’re Not Alone

Breast pain in postpartum can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already tired and adjusting to new motherhood. But relief is possible.

With gentle care, supportive products, and a bit of patience, your body will adjust—and things will get easier.

Need a comfy bra that moves with your body and helps reduce pressure? Check out Bloom & Heal’s Maternity Bra — wire-free, soft, and designed with one-hand clips for easy nursing when you’re already juggling everything else. 

FAQs

Q: When does postpartum breast pain go away?
A: Usually within 2–3 weeks, though it varies. Engorgement tends to peak around days 3–5 and improves with regular nursing.

Q: Can I still breastfeed if I’m sore?
A: Yes, and you should! Nursing helps relieve engorgement and keep milk flowing, which actually reduces pain.

Q: When should I call a doctor?
A: If you have fever, chills, sharp pain, or redness on your breast—it may be mastitis and needs medical care.

Your comfort matters. Breastfeeding is beautiful, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Treat your body with gentleness, find products that support your journey (like our Bloom & Heal bra ), and reach out when you need help.

You’ve got this.