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Why The Areola Pains While Feeding The Baby?
Am breastfeeding my 4 month old baby boy. I notice blackish spots on my areola area and that area pains whenever my toddler latches for milk. The pain moves on to my nipple and goes off once I finish my feeding. Please suggest a remedy as it scares me whenever I sit for feeding him.
Sat, 19 Apr 2014
Hi and welcome to HCM
Nipple pain is not a normal part of breastfeeding. Your nipples may be sensitive in the first few days after birth and while breastfeeding, but sore nipples indicate a problem. If you feel pain, you should seek help immediately to avoid further nipple trauma
To prevent nipple problems try these:
1.Ensure correct positioning and attachment of your baby when feeding.
2.Avoid soaps and shampoos on the nipples during showering.
3.Avoid nipple ointments, powders and tinctures. They may increase nipple problems.
4.Leave milk or colostrum to dry on your nipples after breastfeeding. They both contain anti-infective agents.
5.Change breast pads frequently. Don’t use pads that hold moisture against the skin.
6.If nipple pain is becoming worse then consult your doctor as early as possible.
Incorrect attachment of the baby onto the breast is the most common cause of nipple pain. Slightly changing the position of the baby on the breast should help
Other causes of nipple pain are thrush, dermatitis, bacterial infection and eczema. Breastfeeding with inverted or flat nipples is also one possibility.
Regards
Dr Santosh
Nipple pain is not a normal part of breastfeeding. Your nipples may be sensitive in the first few days after birth and while breastfeeding, but sore nipples indicate a problem. If you feel pain, you should seek help immediately to avoid further nipple trauma
To prevent nipple problems try these:
1.Ensure correct positioning and attachment of your baby when feeding.
2.Avoid soaps and shampoos on the nipples during showering.
3.Avoid nipple ointments, powders and tinctures. They may increase nipple problems.
4.Leave milk or colostrum to dry on your nipples after breastfeeding. They both contain anti-infective agents.
5.Change breast pads frequently. Don’t use pads that hold moisture against the skin.
6.If nipple pain is becoming worse then consult your doctor as early as possible.
Incorrect attachment of the baby onto the breast is the most common cause of nipple pain. Slightly changing the position of the baby on the breast should help
Other causes of nipple pain are thrush, dermatitis, bacterial infection and eczema. Breastfeeding with inverted or flat nipples is also one possibility.
Regards
Dr Santosh
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