It is possible to breastfeed with inverted nipples, that is, that are turned inwards, because for the baby to suckle correctly he needs to suckle a part of the breast and not just the nipple.
In addition, the nipple usually becomes more prominent in the last weeks of pregnancy or soon after delivery, which facilitates breastfeeding. Even so, the mother may have inverted nipples, and should adopt strategies to be able to breastfeed more easily.
1. Rotate the nipple
If the woman has her nipple reversed, she can try rotating with her index finger and thumb so that her nipple protrudes.
If you have cold hands, the process may be easier, for this you can use an ice cube and apply a little bit on the nipples, but do not overdo the application before breastfeeding because the cold can cause the contraction of the ducts.
2. Take out some milk
If the breast is very full, the nipple is less protruding, so you can remove some milk manually or with a pump before putting the baby to the breast.
Here's how to use the bomb to get breast milk.
3. Using a pump or syringe
In order for the nipple to be more prominent, a pump or a 20-mL syringe may be used, as outlined in the image. This technique can be used several times a day for 30 seconds, or 1 minute and preferably always before breast-feeding.
If the mother, even with these strategies, continues to have difficulty breastfeeding, she should consult the pediatrician so that breastfeeding is maintained until at least 6 months of age of the baby.
Tips for breastfeeding with inverted nipples
Other tips to help the mother with inverted nipples to breastfeed include:
- Place the baby to nurse right after delivery up to 1 hour after delivery;
- Avoid using teats, pacifiers or silicone nipple protectors because the baby may confuse the beaks and then have more difficulty in picking up the nipple;
- Try different positions to breastfeed. Know what positions to use for breastfeeding.
In addition, the use of nipple molds during pregnancy is discouraged because it may not help improve the shape of the nipple and may even injure them.
