Breastfeeding can be quite challenging, especially for first time moms. Add to this flattened nipples, and you may find it even more difficult to breastfeed. As the name suggests, flat nipples are simply those that are not raised. They look as if they lie even with the skin of the areola and breast. They basically don’t stick out from the breast. If your nipples are flat, you may need more time and patience to help your baby latch onto the breasts correctly. But be safe in knowing the fact that it is possible to overfeed your baby. You just need to know a few techniques so that your baby gets the right nutrition from your milk. So, read on to find out how to breastfeed with flat nipples.
Join Health Shots Dr Rashmi BalyanConsultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Primus Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi To know about flat nipples and breastfeeding.
Genetics, nursing, hormonal changes and medical disorders are some of the causes of flat nipples in women, she says. Flat nipples can either emerge later in life or be present at birth. Inversion or temporary flattening of the nipples can also occur during breastfeeding because of hormonal changes and the pressure of the baby sucking. The shape and appearance of nipples can also be affected by certain medical diseases such as breast infections, tumors and hormone abnormalities.
breastfeeding with flattened nipples
Wondering whether you can breastfeed with flat nipples? The answer is yes, nursing is possible for moms with flat or inverted nipples, Dr. Balian says. It can be a bit tricky, but there are ways to make it easier.
1. Breast Compression
It may help facilitate your baby’s ability to latch on by gently pressing the breast behind the areola.
2. Breast Pump
Before breastfeeding, using a breast pump Drawing out the nipple and making it more noticeable can help, say experts. Breast pumps come in different types, including manual and electric breast pumps.
3. nipple shield
A nipple shield may be placed over your nipple, to give your baby a more exposed surface to grasp. But talk to a lactation consultant before starting any breastfeeding. nipple shield, If it is not used properly then your breasts may get hurt.
4. Correct Your Position
Lie down while you breastfeed as this will help gravity push your nipple out. You just need to lay your baby on top of you while you feed your baby.
5. Stimulate Your Nipple
Another way to make breastfeeding easier is by gently stimulating and stroking your nipples. Try rolling your nipple between your finger and thumb. You can also touch your nipple with a cool, damp cloth.
6. Hold Your Breast While Feeding
Hold your chest when you sit down to feed your baby. This simple trick can make it easy to give your baby a good latch (difference between good and bad latch, You can make a C-shape with your hand so that you can control the movement of your breast. This way, you can easily move your nipple towards the baby’s mouth.
7. See a lactation consultant
If you are experiencing pain or having trouble producing enough milk for your baby, you can contact a lactation consultant. Experts can give you tips on breastfeeding with flattened nipples and help you better.
So, while learning the different breastfeeding positions for your baby, you can also try these methods if you have flat or inverted nipples.
