Nipple Pain & Fissure Relief in Ankeny
Is Painful Breastfeeding Affecting Your Nursing Relationship?
When every latch brings tears to your eyes and your nipples are cracked, bleeding, or severely sore, breastfeeding transforms from a nurturing experience into a dreaded ordeal. The pain can be so intense that you may question whether continuing to breastfeed is even possible.
At Feel Good Chiropractic & Wellness in Ankeny, we understand the physical and emotional toll that nipple pain and fissures can take on nursing mothers.
That's why we're proud to be Iowa's first provider of laser therapy for lactation support.
Our innovative, gentle treatment has already helped countless mothers heal nipple damage and continue their breastfeeding journey comfortably—without extended waiting periods for relief.
Why Choose Feel Good Chiropractic for Your Nipple Pain?
Our approach to nipple pain and fissures is different. We focus on:
- Advanced laser therapy that accelerates tissue healing
- Rapid results - many mothers experience relief after just 1-2 sessions
- Continued breastfeeding during the healing process
- Transparent pricing with no surprise bills
- No insurance required – our self-pay options make quality care affordable
- Convenient online booking and same-day appointments for urgent pain
Understanding Nipple Pain and Fissure
What Are Nipple Fissures?
Nipple fissures are cracks or breaks in the skin of the nipple that can cause significant pain, especially during breastfeeding. These fissures may be small or quite deep, and they often bleed or form scabs. Alongside fissures, many mothers experience general nipple pain, soreness, or abrasions that make breastfeeding uncomfortable or extremely painful.
Common Symptoms of Nipple Damage
- Sharp, shooting, or burning pain during and after breastfeeding
- Visible cracks, splits, or fissures in the nipple skin
- Bleeding or scabbing on the nipple
- Blanching (whitening) of the nipple during or after feeding
- Tenderness or pain when clothing touches the nipples
- Hesitation to breastfeed due to anticipation of pain
- Incomplete feedings as baby or mother terminates nursing due to discomfort
Common Causes Leading to Nipple Pain and Fissures
Improper Latch
The most common cause of nipple damage is a shallow or incorrect latch that places excessive pressure on the nipple instead of the areola, causing friction and compression.
Tongue or Lip Ties
Restricted oral tissues in the baby can affect how they latch and suckle, often leading to nipple trauma as they compensate for limited tongue or lip movement.
Improper Positioning
Breastfeeding positions that don't align the baby well with the breast can create pulling or friction on the nipple during feeding.
Strong Suction or Incorrect Breaking of Suction
A baby with very strong suction or improperly breaking the latch (pulling the baby off without first breaking the suction) can damage nipple tissue.
Pump Trauma
Incorrect flange sizing, excessive suction settings, or improper positioning with breast pumps can cause or worsen nipple damage.
Skin Conditions
Conditions like eczema, dermatitis, or bacterial/fungal infections can contribute to nipple pain and slow healing of existing fissures.
Environmental Factors
Harsh soaps, excessive moisture, friction from breast pads or clothing, and extreme weather can all affect nipple skin integrity.
How Laser Therapy Works to Heal Nipple Pain and Fissures
Accelerated Tissue Healing
Laser therapy delivers specific wavelengths of light energy that penetrate nipple tissue to stimulate cellular repair processes and accelerate healing of damaged skin.
The Science Behind the Relief:
- Stimulates Collagen Production to repair damaged skin tissue more rapidly
- Increases Blood Circulation to the nipple area, bringing healing nutrients and oxygen
- Reduces Inflammation in the damaged tissue, decreasing pain and swelling
- Accelerates Cell Reproduction and Growth to close cracks and rebuild healthy skin
- Delivers Immediate Pain Relief by modulating pain signals
Using the same advanced LightForce technology trusted by medical professionals nationwide, our laser therapy provides a powerful, non-invasive treatment for nipple damage. Many mothers experience significant pain reduction after the very first treatment and visible healing of fissures within 24-48 hours.
Your Path to Comfortable Breastfeeding
1. Assessment & Examination ✓
We start with a careful evaluation of your nipple condition, including examination of any fissures, abrasions, or other damage. We'll discuss your breastfeeding experience, pain levels, and any previous treatments you've tried. Understanding the severity and causes of your nipple pain helps us create the most effective treatment plan.
2. Personalized Care Plan ✓
Based on your assessment, we'll create a treatment plan that includes one or more laser therapy sessions, along with practical recommendations for preventing further damage. We'll explain exactly how the treatment works and set realistic expectations for relief and healing.
3. Gentle Laser Treatment
During your treatment session:
- You'll be comfortably seated in a private treatment room
- Your doctor will carefully operate the laser over the nipple area
- You'll feel gentle warmth as the therapeutic light reaches the damaged tissue
- Treatment sessions typically last 1-2 minutes per nipple
- The procedure is completely painless and requires no special preparation
- You can nurse immediately following treatment
4. You're Back Bonding With Your Baby ✓
Most mothers notice a significant reduction in pain during their very next feeding after treatment. Visible healing of fissures typically begins within 24-48 hours, with many mothers reporting complete relief after 2-3 sessions. Unlike traditional treatments that may take weeks to show results, laser therapy provides rapid healing that allows you to continue breastfeeding comfortably, particularly when used along side some short term nipple protection.
Comprehensive Support for Your Nursing Journey
While laser therapy is our primary approach for healing nipple damage, we believe in addressing all factors that contribute to nipple pain. As part of your care, we may also provide:
Practical Breastfeeding Recommendations
- Latch and positioning guidance to prevent further damage
- Suggestions for breaking suction properly when ending a feeding
- Pumping recommendations if needed during the healing process
Prevention Strategies
- Nipple care practices to maintain skin integrity
- Environmental adjustments to promote healing
- Hydration and nutrition support for skin health
Professional Referral Network
We proudly work with other lactation professionals in the Ankeny area. For dedicated lactation support, we recommend Crystel Corbin, RN, IBCLC at Latchia.com—a trusted International Board Certified Lactation Consultant who can provide complementary care for latch and positioning issues that may be contributing to your nipple pain.
Real Results from Nursing Mothers
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I visited Feel Good Chiropractic & Wellness and had a great experience! I went for the laser therapy for breastfeeding and lactation. Dr. Isaiah was so helpful throughout the whole process. He answered all of my questions and ensured I knew exactly what to expect with the process. I was experiencing recurring clogged ducts and after the second visit, I have not had any issues. Definitely a great option to look into for the many different benefits!
-Amy. B
Ready to Experience Comfortable Breastfeeding?
Schedule your assessment today and take the first step toward pain-free nursing. Same-day appointments are often available for urgent nipple pain—right here in Ankeny.
