Soreness?

[JennyLynn512]

Alright, I have been breastfeeding Valerie for about the past 10 days. Things started out frustrating but as of the doctor's visit on Monday she is starting to gain back her weight and BFing has been going great. Until now...(of course, lol) a couple of days ago, I noticed that my left nipple was pretty sore when she would latch on and suck. The soreness didn't last the entire time, but it was pretty painful for the first couple of seconds. I've been paying a lot of attention to her latch, because I thought this was the reason it was sore, but she latches on great. She never just sucks on the nipple and the opposite nipple seems completely fine. My question is, do I keep breastfeeding on this sore side or take a couple days off? I did some research on the internet and now I'm worried that if they don't heal, they will become infected and a yeast infection or mastitis will kick in (for baby and me). I'm very good at keeping them clean and I am always putting on Lanolin cream.

Someone said that I could just breastfeed on my right side for the 20 minutes that she goes and then pump my left breast and feed that to her through a bottle. Well I tried that today and in one sitting she fed on my right breast for 20 minutes (very well). When I went to go pump the left and I only got 1-2 ounces and she just kept crying for more after I fed her, so I put her back on my right breast for her to get more, which she fed for another 10 minutes. I guess I'm just confused as to what to do. The soreness doesn't last the entire time through the feeding, but what do I need to do to have this heal?

 

[Margerle]

How do you describe the soreness? Is it 'topical' (a milk blister, cracking, open area?) or is it 'internal'?

It is common to get a "toe curling" painful sensation when a baby first latches on - last for a few seconds then dissapates. This has to do with the letdown once your breast milk production has regulated.

Not sure of which you might be experiencing?

As far as pumping, that is a typical and average amount to get from a new 'pumping' mom. Don't be alarmed. But you may have guessed already that pumping is not a good solution to a BF issue. It is used as a last resort.

Otherwise, IMO keep her on the breast and feed as you normally would unless topical symptoms come up.

 

[JennyLynn512]

When I look at the nipple, I notice some cracking at the base and I assume that is what is making it sore when she latches on. Normal? Yes, I have noticed that pumping is not as effective as actually breastfeeding and I have begun to hate pumping, haha. I want to keep feeding her on this breast, but I'm nervous about this cracking/soreness not going away.

 

[JennyLynn512]

I want to mention though that it isn't bleeding and it doesn't look bad at all...just cracked. The horrible part is when she latches on and the first minute or so I have to bite my jaw down to get through it...then it seems ok.

 

[Margerle]

I want to mention though that it isn't bleeding and it doesn't look bad at all...just cracked. The horrible part is when she latches on and the first minute or so I have to bite my jaw down to get through it...then it seems ok.

:: nodding ::

Use a topical cream like lansinoh between every feeding. That will help with the crack. And these cracks and things are like blisters for musicians... The best bet is just to keep "playing" through the pain. They'll heal over and then things won't be so painful. I'd bet you'll be feeling better in 5-10 days.

 

[JennyOwens]

I also had a painful crack on my nipple and my health visitor recommended that I start LO off on the non-sore nipple for the first more vigorous sucks (about 5 minutes) before then switching to the other sore boob for a proper feed.

I've tried all the creams and the above but still have sore cracks (on both now!) and have bought some nipple shields - get some if it carries on hurting! Because LO was latching on fine my health visitor said that there was no danger of introducing them because we were already "established breastfeeders". The shields have been brilliant and really helped with the pain and healing. I tend to take them off after the first ten minutes as the pain is almost gone and LO can get a better seal with my breast.

I feel your pain (literally!)... I hope you get through it!

 

[JASMAK]

I wouldn't stop BFing on that nipple, unless you pump...otherwise, your breast will decrease the supply. I would have it looked at, use the lansinoh cream (lifesaver), and continue, watching the latch. 10 days is not long at all...and I clearly remember having hamburger nipples until about 3-4 weeks....of course, Jasper and I struggled at the beginning...so that might be longer than usual. If your nipple is itchy as well...espesially afterwards, and/or is bright red...it might be a yeast infection. Then you will be prescribed an ointment. Good luck, and keep us updated. T

 

[Mango]

Lansinoh Cream and lot of it!!! The pain during breastfeeding and soreness is common for newly breast feeding moms. Mine felt that way as well hun. By the end of the first month it will have diminished and your nipples will be use to it and not feel sore PROMISE!!! Try to hang in there!!!

 

[JennyLynn512]

Thanks ladies! My nipples have been feeling much better...like you all said, they are getting there!