Know you nipplesThere are some things you need to know about your nipples concerning breastfeeding. I have yet to have a day that goes by on a shift at the hospital that I dont find someone with inverted nipples. And 9 times out of 10 the mom is shocked to hear that she has inverted nipples.Inverted nipples are nipples that have adhesions/scar tissue at the very center tip of the nipple. This causes the tip to invert or go back in when stimulated. Why is this an issue? Because a nipple that goes in instead of out makes a difficult target for baby. So when I teach breastfeeding class I encourage EVERY mom to do a pinch test at home. Very simple: Start with a bare breast, take your thumb and index finger at the noon and 6 position on your nipple, placing them onthe ridge of your areola (the line that separates nipple from breast). And now comes the hard part (just kidding) simply push those fingers together pinching the nipple. As you push those fingers together your nipple should poke out. But if it goes in you are inverted. If in doubt, let your lactation consultant or physician take a look. Here is a link to some photos of flat and inverted nipples Demonstration on how to perform the pinch test Do you have flat or inverted nipples? No worries, there are many interventions a lactation consultant can help with to help you achieve latch with your baby. Sometimes latch can be achieved with little or no intervention, sometimes the use of a nipple shield is in order. But this situation is ideal for a lactation consultant to help you. back from nipples to preparation for breastfeeing page |
Click here to pay for chat now
