الفهرس 
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Abstract
Background: Cracked nipples as a complication associated with breast-feeding is considered the most significant factor affecting the uptake and continuation of breast-feeding especially in the first 30 days postpartum. Aim: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with cracked nipples during postpartum. Study design: A descriptive cross sectional study design. Setting: The study was carried out at Nabaroh Central Hospital and Nabaroh Health Care Center, Nabaroh, Dakahlia governorate, Egypt. Study subjects: A convenient sample of 817 postpartal women. Tools: Three tools were used, a structured interview questionnaire, nipple soreness rating scale and cracked nipples associated factors questionnaire. Results: More than one-third of women had good knowledge regarding breastfeeding and cracked nipples, nearly three-quarters of postpartal women had cracked nipples, more than one-third of women had 2nd and 3rd degrees of cracked nipples, nearly two-thirds of women had incorrect nipple attachment and most women perform improper breast feeding techniques. Conclusion: The prevalence of cracked nipples was high among the studied postpartal women and associated with women who aged from 20-30 years, un employed women, delivered via cesarean section, feeding babies ≥ 15 min, not receiving a guidance about breastfeeding during 1st week of postpartum period, incorrect nipples preparation during pregnancy, breast engorgement, incorrect breast care technique, feeding baby on demand, pulling the nipple from baby mouth by force after breastfeeding, using pacifier, incorrect latch-on technique, improper body position technique during breastfeeding, and improper breastfeeding technique. Recommendation: Designing a nursing guidelines for pregnant and postpartal women about proper breast feeding technique and cracked nipples prevention.