What can help alleviate sore nipples according to breastfeeding practices?

Letting nipples dry between feedings is beneficial because it allows the nipples to have time to heal and recover from moisture and friction that can occur during breastfeeding. Keeping the nipples dry can help prevent further irritation and allows natural healing processes to occur. Moisture can lead to chafing, soreness, and even infections, so allowing them to dry can provide relief and improve overall comfort.

Regular breastfeeding without interruption, while essential for maintaining milk supply and ensuring effective latch, does not specifically address the immediate issue of sore nipples. Frequent changes in breastfeeding positions can help in preventing soreness by ensuring that the baby latches differently each time, but if the primary concern is to alleviate existing soreness, drying the nipples would take precedence. Using breast pads may offer some benefit in terms of comfort and preventing leakage, but they do not address the need for air exposure and healing of the nipple skin itself.