Breastfeeding Help!
Reliable information on
breastfeeding topics
by Heisje de Jong,
Certified Lactation Consultant
19.- FLAT AND INVERTED NIPPLES <previous topic next topic>
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In the last trimester of your pregnancy it is a good idea to
check for flat or inverted nipples. You can determine this by
gently compressing your areola at the base of the nipple with
your thumb and forefinger. A flat nipple is one that can not
be compressed outward and also does not protrude or erect when
stimulated. An inverted nipple retracts when the areola is compressed.
Most women with some degree of
nipple inversion or flatness won't have a problem with breastfeeding
because baby will be able to bring out the nipple when he is
nursing.
A severe case of nipple inversion may make latching on and breastfeeding
difficult but fortunately in most cases, inversion can be corrected
by the measures described below.
| TREATMENT FOR FLAT OR INVERTED NIPPLES. |
* If you have flat or inverted
nipples correct positioning and latch on of the baby is
extremely important to prevent your nipples from
becoming sore.
* You can wear breast shells
in the last weeks of your pregnancy during the day, in
gradually increasing lengths of time. After the baby
is born you can wear them in between feedings
or just before feedings. Breast shells are two piece plastic
or silicone devices worn inside your
bra over the nipple and areola. Via gentle pressure on the areola,
the inverted nipple protrudes and the adhesions that
pull them in are gently stretched.
|
Note: * The breast shells should have multiple air holes to allow air circulation and to prevent moisture build up which can lead to nipple soreness. * The milk that may leak in the breast shells should not be given to the baby. * You may need a larger size bra when you wear breast shells to avoid too much pressure on the breast. |
* Do the following exercise (
the so called Hoffman technique) several times a day
to stretch the adhesions that cause the nipple inversion.
(Avoid this exercise during your pregnancy). Place
a thumb on each side of the nipple base, press in firmly towards
the chest and pull the thumbs away from each other,
place your thumbs every time on a
different spot around the nipple.
* After birth you can use a breast pump for a few minutes prior to feeding to help draw out the inverted nipple.
* If your nipples can be grasped
you can try stimulating them before feedings by gently rolling
them between thumb and fore finger. You can also try applying
some ice, wrapped
in a wet cloth, on your nipple to help draw out the
nipple prior to feeding.
Try to be patient while you try one or all of these measures to see which works best for you. Remember to take extra care with positioning and latch on of your baby. (See section on POSITIONING YOUR BABY AT THE BREAST).
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