Can still breastfeed with flat nipples, find out how here

The first experience of breastfeeding is not easy, especially if you have flat nipples. Even so, no need to worry too much. You can still breastfeed with a flat nipple, as long as you know how to deal with it. Let's find out how here. A person is said to have a flat nipple if the nipple position is not higher than the areola or the surrounding area that is reddish or brown. Unlike the nipples in general, flat nipples usually will not arise when stimulated. Flat nipples are not a rare condition, this condition is experienced by around 10-20% of women in the world. Flat nipples can occur from childhood or when growing up. This condition can be caused by several factors, including due to certain diseases, trauma, swelling in the tissue behind the nipple, or because of a pull under the nipple that is pressing on the tissue in the area.

How to Breastfeed with Flat Nipples

Can you breastfeed with flat nipples? The answer is, it can. But of course it takes more patience and effort than those who breastfeed with normal nipples. Even though you have flat nipples, body changes during pregnancy and after giving birth can make your nipples more prominent. Nipples that were originally flat can also stand out naturally in the third trimester of pregnancy, when approaching labor. Flat nipples are actually not a serious problem for breastfeeding mothers as long as the baby can still get nutritional intake from breast milk, even though the baby cannot or refuses to breastfeed directly. If you have flat nipples, you should try applying a few simple methods below:

• Lactation Consultation

Mother can do lactation consultations, both to doctors, nurses, and lactation counselors. They can help you find ways to keep breastfeeding with flat nipples.

• Using a breast milk pump

Breast milk pumps can be used to help lift the nipple out before breastfeeding. Mother can try to pump breast milk for at least a week until the nipples become prominent and ready to breastfeed.

• Using silicone suction nipples

This cover can help the baby attach to breastfeeding. Unfortunately, this tool can risk making the baby become dependent on the device, and over time may be able to reduce the flow of breast milk.

In addition to the methods above, plastic surgery can also be a solution to permanently change the shape of the nipple. But besides needing to spend more deeply, of course this method is not easy to do and requires more time. What must be considered, the use of any tool or procedure to position the nipples, you should first consult a doctor or breast milk counselor, Bun. Although it is generally not a dangerous condition, it never hurts to see a doctor if one or both nipples suddenly become flat or come inside. Although rare, this situation can be a symptom of breast disease, including breast cancer or Paget's disease that attacks the nipples and areolae. Mother should remain optimistic and the spirit of breastfeeding your child, even with a flat nipple. The right position and technique will help you in providing the best nutrition for your child. With good nutrition, Little will grow into a healthy and strong child.