A breastfeeding mother is experiencing severe nipple soreness. What should the nurse suggest?

The recommendation to position the newborn with the ear, shoulder, and hip in alignment is a crucial intervention for a breastfeeding mother experiencing severe nipple soreness. Proper positioning helps ensure that the baby latches onto the breast effectively, which can reduce discomfort and prevent further injury to the nipples. When the baby is aligned in a manner that allows for a deep latch, it can help the baby to take in more of the areola, rather than just the nipple, which is vital for both effective feeding and minimizing soreness.

Effective positioning can also promote a comfortable breastfeeding experience, potentially alleviating pain as the infant is less likely to create friction or stress on the nipple during feeding. Thus, focusing on correct alignment and latch becomes essential for both nurturing the infant's feeding habits and caring for the mother's breast health.

Other options, like using a nipple shield, may provide temporary relief but can sometimes create additional complications or inhibit proper latch. Limiting breastfeeding frequency could hinder the baby's nourishment and also impact milk supply. Applying ointment before nursing might not be advisable as it could create a barrier that makes latching more difficult. Therefore, proper positioning stands out as a fundamental and effective approach to resolving nipple soreness.