Epsom Salt vs Saline Soaks for Sore or Damaged Nipples

Epsom Salt and Saline Soaks are common interventions we use to help reduce discomfort when a breastfeeding parent has sore or damaged nipples. They require basic supplies many families already have on hand and are incredibly cheap - making them one of the most accessible options we have available. It is important to note, however, that they are not the same thing and each serves a different purpose. Neither is fool proof and can be done in a way that easily causes more issues than it helps.

The key to successfully using this type of intervention is know why to use them, how often to use them, and what they are intended to do.