During breastfeeding and the early days postpartum, breast tenderness is common. However, when alternating between breastfeeding and pumping, many moms experience a new challenge: sore nipples and breast pain. While mild discomfort is normal as your body adjusts, persistent pain isn’t something you should ignore.

Here’s how to relieve breast pain while pumping, what causes it, and how to make every session more comfortable.

At a Glance: Common Causes of Pumping Pain

Is Breast Pain After Pumping Normal?

Mild nipple tenderness or a tingling “pins and needles” sensation is common during early pumping as your body adjusts to stimulation. This discomfort should fade within 10–15 seconds once milk begins to flow.

If pain feels sharp, lasts through the session, or continues afterward, reach out to your healthcare provider to rule out conditions like mastitis or a poor flange fit.

Common Causes of Breast Pain After Pumping

1. Mastitis

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast, often caused by trapped milk or bacterial infection through cracked skin.

• Symptoms: Swelling, redness, warmth, body aches, fever
• Relief: Rest, apply gentle heat, keep breasts emptied, and contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist

2. Engorgement

Engorgement occurs when breasts become overly full—often between 2–5 days postpartum or after skipped feeds.

• Signs: Breasts feel tight, warm, or heavy

• Relief: Breastfeed or hand express to soften breasts. Apply warmth before and cool therapy after using Willow’s Hot and Cold Therapy Pads for extra comfort.
  
  

3. Plugged Ducts

Milk ducts can clog when breasts are not emptied regularly.

• Signs: Small, firm lumps or soreness localized to one area

• Relief: Massage the area toward the nipple, use warmth, and pump gently. If symptoms worsen, contact your provider to prevent infection.

5 Proven Tips to Relieve Breast Pain While Pumping

1. Use the Right Pump and Flange Fit

An ill-fitting flange can cause nipple injury and reduce milk flow. Choose the correct size using the Willow Perfect Fit Bundle or Sizing Inserts to find your best fit.

• Pump 10–15 minutes after milk flow stops to maintain supply

• Keep suction low and mimic baby’s natural rhythm

• Massage between sessions to prevent buildup

2. Massage Before and After Pumping

Breast massage encourages letdown, relieves fullness, and improves milk flow.

1. Apply a warm compress (like those in the Find Your Flow Feeding Kit)

2. Massage in gentle circular motions from chest wall to nipple

3. Repeat after pumping to fully empty the breast

3. Apply Nipple Cream or Moisturizer

Constant contact can lead to dryness or cracking. Use a lanolin-based or plant-based nipple balm to soothe and protect sensitive skin. Avoid scented or alcohol-based creams that can irritate.

4. Alternate Warm and Cold Therapy

Warm therapy encourages milk flow while cool compresses reduce swelling and soreness. The Willow Hot and Cold Therapy Pads can be warmed in the microwave for heat or chilled for cooling relief.

5. Try an Epsom Salt Soak (In Moderation)

A short Epsom salt soak can ease inflammation and soreness. Fill a basin with warm water, add a small amount of salt, and soak for 5–10 minutes. Always confirm with your healthcare provider before starting regular soaks.

Preventing Breast Pain While Pumping

• Maintain a consistent pumping schedule to avoid engorgement
• Use the right flange size to ensure proper suction and comfort
• Keep all pump parts clean to prevent infection
• Wear supportive, non-restrictive bras
• Stay hydrated and rest when possible

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:

• Persistent or worsening pain after several sessions

• Red, swollen areas on the breast

• Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms

• A hard lump that doesn’t go away after massage and pumping

Early treatment helps prevent infection and keeps your supply healthy.

FAQs About Breast Pain While Pumping

1. Is it normal for pumping to hurt?
Mild discomfort is normal initially, but ongoing or sharp pain can indicate a flange fit issue or infection.

2. How can I tell if my flange is the wrong size?
If your nipples rub or appear misshapen after pumping, your flange may be too small or large. Re-measure using Willow’s sizing inserts.

3. Can I keep pumping if I have a plugged duct?
Yes. Gentle pumping helps clear blockages. Use warmth and massage before each session for best results.

4. What helps with engorgement pain while pumping?
Use a warm compress before pumping and a cool one afterward. Massage your breasts to improve milk flow.

5. When should I call a doctor about breast pain?
If you experience fever, chills, or red, painful swelling, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately.

Comfortably Pump Anywhere with Willow

At Willow, we’re here to make your breastfeeding and pumping journey as comfortable as possible. With the Find Your Flow Feeding Kit, Hot and Cold Therapy Pads, and Perfect Fit Bundle, you can find relief, prevent pain, and focus on what matters most—bonding with your baby.

For more guidance on comfort during pumping and milk supply, explore the Willow Blog for expert-backed advice from certified lactation consultants.