Breastfeeding--Sore Nipples
Here's another school assignment, in a somewhat informal context but still good info. I'll be taking Breastfeeding 2 in the winter term, so I'll post more of these as they are available.
Concern: Sore Nipples
-What would you advise for the breastfeeding mother with this concern? I would first tell her what a great thing she is doing for her baby by breastfeeding, and let her know that we can solve her sore nipple problem so it’s not so difficult for her. She can first make sure that the baby’s whole body is lined up straight against hers, so baby doesn’t have to turn her head to reach the nipple. See that the baby’s mouth is wide open when reaching for the nipple, and that as much of the areola as possible is in baby’s mouth. The lips should be flanged while baby is nursing and the mother should make sure that the baby keeps this same latch for the entire feeding without slipping. If she does need to reposition the baby, or to break suction at any time she needs to, do not pull baby off the nipple, but rather break the suction first by pushing down on the areola next to the nipple until the suction is broken, then take baby away from the nipple. Although it is tempting when a mother has sore nipples for her to nurse less frequently to avoid the pain, she would be better served in the long run to resist that temptation and perhaps even nurse more often. She should make sure to nurse thoroughly. She will have less pain as a feeding goes on. Then I would assure her that once these things are corrected, her sore nipples should go away very soon. Some other things she can try if her sore nipples are advanced: Make sure they are dried well after each feeding and that they do not stay moist. Lansinoh cream can be used on sore nipples as a soothing and healing agent.
