Breast pain after pumping can be uncomfortable and upsetting, but there are a few simple steps you can take to help relieve the pain. Whether it’s caused by incorrect pump setup, a poorly fitting flange, or prolonged pumping, managing this pain can improve your comfort and continued breastfeeding experience.

In this guide, you’ll learn effective ways to relieve breast pain and prevent future discomfort after pumping.

Why Does My Breast Hurt After Pumping?

Breast pain after pumping can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as using the wrong flange size, which can cause squeezing or irritation, or the suction being set too high, causing tissue strain. Over-pumping can also irritate breast tissue, and blocked milk ducts can cause lumps.

In addition, if there are signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or fever, this may indicate mastitis, a condition that requires medical attention. Proper technique and equipment adjustments can also help reduce pain.

What Are the Signs of Breast Tissue Damage from Pumping?

If you use a manual or electric breast pump improperly or with the wrong device accessories, you may damage your breast tissue. Here are some common signs of breast tissue damage during expression:

1. Persistent Pain: If you experience persistent soreness or severe pain during or after pumping, it could mean your breast tissue is stretched or damaged. This could be caused by using the wrong level of suction or a poorly fitting breast pump silicone flange.

2. Bruising or Discoloration: Bruising or redness on your breast or nipple could indicate trauma. This can happen if the suction is too strong or the flange is not positioned correctly, causing damage under the skin.

3. Cracked or Bleeding Nipples: Cracked or bleeding nipples are often caused by friction from excessive suction or a poorly fitting flange. If left untreated, this injury can worsen and increase the risk of infection.

4. Swelling or Lumps: Breast swelling or lumps could indicate blocked or inflamed milk ducts, such as mastitis. This happens when milk is not fully expressed, causing pressure to build up.

5. Skin Changes: Too much friction during pumping can cause blisters, abrasions, or thickened skin around the areola. This can be caused by an improperly fitting breast pump flange, causing repeated irritation and pressure.

How to Relieve Breast Pain While Pumping？

Here are some ways to relieve breast pain when you pump so that you can express more comfortably and prevent damage to your breast tissue.

Use the Correct Flange Size

If you feel any pinching or notice your nipples rubbing against the sides of the silicone flanges, you may need to switch to a different size. For example, if you feel sore after pumping, measuring your nipple size and choosing a better-fitting flange can help ease the discomfort.

Adjust the Suction Level

If you feel discomfort from the beginning, we recommend that you start with the lowest suction level and slowly increase until you find a comfortable setting. This can help you mimic a natural breastfeeding rhythm and avoid breast tissue damage.

Apply Heat

If you feel tightness in your breasts, applying heat for five minutes before pumping can help. For example, using a warm towel or heating pad can soften breast tissue and make the pumping process more comfortable.

Massage Your Breasts

If you often deal with blocked ducts, try massaging your breasts before and during pumping. You can use your fingertips to gently massage in a circular motion from the outside of the breast toward the nipple to help thin out the milk and relieve pain.

Take a Break

If you experience persistent pain while pumping, take a break. For example, you could pump for 10 minutes using a quiet wearable breast pump, rest for a few minutes, and then continue. This approach gives your breasts time to recover and reduces overall pressure, especially if you pump regularly.

When to Seek Medical Help？

Suppose you have persistent breast pain that does not improve despite adjusting your pumping habits. In that case, you should seek medical attention as it may indicate an underlying problem such as mastitis or breast abscess. Unrelieved pain may be a sign of a condition that requires medical attention.

In addition, if you experience symptoms such as fever, redness, swelling, or nipple discharge, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional immediately. These signs may indicate an infection or other serious condition that requires prompt treatment to avoid complications.

Alternative Remedies for Long-Term Pain Relief

If you have been unable to find relief from your pain, here are some alternative long-term pain relief therapies that may help manage chronic pain without relying on medication:

• Acupuncture: Involves inserting thin needles into the body to relieve pain, commonly used for conditions like arthritis and migraines.

• Chiropractic Care: Adjustments help realign the spine, reducing pain and tension in the back, neck, and joints.

• Herbal Supplements: Natural remedies like turmeric or ginger can reduce inflammation, aiding conditions such as osteoarthritis.

• Mind-Body Techniques: Practices like yoga and meditation improve relaxation and pain tolerance.

• Massage Therapy: Regular massages relieve muscle tension and enhance circulation, easing chronic pain.

Related Reading: What Do I Do if I Have a Sudden Drop in Breast Milk Supply?

FAQs

How long to pump to relieve engorgement?

Pumping for about 10 to 15 minutes can reduce excess milk and help you relieve breast engorgement. However, you want to make sure you pump just enough to relieve discomfort but not completely empty your breasts, as this may be a sign that your body needs to make more milk. You can also gently massage your breasts before and during pumping to relieve pressure and encourage milk flow.

How to relieve breast pain after pregnancy？

To relieve postpartum breast pain, you can try wearing a supportive bra, using warm compresses, and gently massaging your breasts. If the pain is severe, over-the-counter pain relievers may help. If you are breastfeeding, make sure you suck properly to relieve nipple discomfort. If you are not breastfeeding, using cold compresses and avoiding any breast stimulation can help reduce milk supply and manage pain.

How to relieve breast pain after birth, not breastfeeding？

If you are not breastfeeding, you can relieve breast pain by using cold compresses, wearing a comfortable but snug-fitting bra, and avoiding any stimulation that may encourage milk production. Pain relievers can help you manage the discomfort. Allow your milk to dry naturally, which should relieve the pain within a few days to a week. Be sure to avoid pumping or expressing milk, as this may prolong the discomfort.