A perfect latch can feel like the holy grail of early motherhood — everyone talks about it, but few admit how hard it is to get right.
Pain, cracked nipples, or milk blisters often make mums question whether poor hygiene is to blame.
The truth? Most latch problems come from mechanics, not cleanliness.
Let’s untangle the common myths about hygiene and breastfeeding — and what really matters when it comes to protecting both you and your baby.
Myth 1: “You must sterilise your breasts before every feed.”
Fact: Your skin has its own microbiome — natural, protective bacteria that help keep both you and your baby healthy.
Washing before every feed strips that barrier, leading to dryness and irritation.
Better approach:
Gently clean with warm water once or twice a day, or after heavy sweating. Otherwise, simply pat dry between feeds.
If cracked or sore, use a mild, fragrance-free balm or expressed breast milk for moisture.
“The nipple isn’t sterile — it’s balanced,” says lactation consultant Mei Tan. “Trying to over-clean only upsets that balance.”
Myth 2: “Nipple pain means infection.”
Fact: Pain can come from friction, poor latch angle, or even tight muscles in your jaw or shoulders.
Infection (like thrush or mastitis) shows with redness, swelling, and persistent burning pain — not just tenderness.
If you’re unsure, observe the pattern: pain during every feed with visible cracks = likely latch issue.
Pain with fever or deep ache = time to see a doctor.
Myth 3: “Breast milk left on the skin causes bacteria growth.”
Fact: Breast milk actually contains natural antibodies (IgA, lactoferrin) that inhibit bacterial growth.
It’s one of the gentlest healing fluids nature provides.
Leaving a small amount on sore nipples can aid healing — just ensure bras and nursing pads are changed frequently to keep the area dry.
Myth 4: “Pumping is more hygienic than direct feeding.”
Fact: Pumping adds extra surfaces — bottles, flanges, tubing — that require consistent cleaning.
If not sterilised properly, they can harbour more bacteria than direct breastfeeding ever would.
The safest choice isn’t one or the other; it’s whichever method you can keep clean consistently.
For pump parts, rinse immediately after use and sterilise daily.
Myth 5: “Latch problems are always the mother’s fault.”
Fact: Never.
Latch issues often stem from a combination of factors — baby’s mouth shape, positioning, tension, or even fast let-down.
You can do everything “right” and still need professional guidance.
Seek help early from a lactation consultant; the right adjustments can ease pain within days.
Bonus: The Hygiene Habits That Do Matter
-
Wash hands before every feed or pumping session.
-
Air dry nipples; avoid tight bras that trap moisture.
-
Sterilise bottles and pump parts daily.
-
Replace breast pads frequently.
Clean enough to be safe. Gentle enough to let your body heal.
The Takeaway
Good hygiene supports breastfeeding — but overdoing it can do more harm than good.
Focus on balance: clean tools, healthy skin, proper latch.
Your body is designed to nurture, not disinfect. Trust its natural wisdom — and give yourself grace through the learning curve.
Related:
Read Post-C-Section Care: Safe Cleaning Around Baby or explore our Breast Pump Wipes and Sterilising Tablets for effortless, baby-safe hygiene.