Too often I hear mothers tell me they wish they'd checked for flat or inverted nipples before their baby was born and they caused complications with breastfeeding, so we thought we'd let you know what you can do about it.
Flat or inverted nipples are much more common than you might think, with an estimated 10% of first time mothers having them. Unfortunately for many mothers they lead to an inability to breastfeed successfully and can result in many hours of frustration, many dollars spent on equipment and formula and perhaps worst of all guilt at not succeeding with breastfeeding.
What surprises me most is how often flat or inverted nipples go undiagnosed, and how many mothers only find out later what caused their difficulties with feeding, especially considering how many women are affected. It's very easy to check yourself, and if you believe you may have flat or inverted nipples it is then simple to help draw them out using breast shells or a manual breastpump. We also recommending seeking the help of a lactation consultant.
What causes flat or inverted nipples?
it's simple really, the muscle tissue that makes up the nipple is not as elastic as it should be.
How do flat or inverted nipples affect breastfeeding?
The nipple stimulates baby's sucking by 'stroking' baby's palate. If a nipple is flat or inverted it is less likely to reach baby's palate and won't remind baby to suck. Often mothers with flat or inverted nipples note that their baby will suck strongly on a teet or dummy but is disinterested in the breast, and unfortunately many take this to mean that their child prefers the bottle, when really they just dont' know what to do with the breast.
How do I know if I have flat or inverted nipples?
If you are worried about flat or inverted nipples tell your midwife or LMC before baby arrives, if baby has already arrived talk to your midwife or a lactation consultant. You can also check your nipples yourself.
Simply cup your under under your breast and place your thumb above the areola. Press your thumb down and watch your nipple. A normal nipple will appear erect, a flat nipple will have no or little change and an inverted nipple will go concave (inwards a bit like a belly button)
Images from www.womenshealth.govWhat can I do if I have flat or inverted nipples?
It's very important to seek professional advice from a lactation consultant if you are having trouble feeding or if you have concerns. However they are likely to recommend the same things we do. Breast shells are brilliant at helping to draw out flat or inverted nipples and can be worn both during and after pregnancy. Pumping with a good manual breastpump is another great way to help improve the elasticity of the nipple muscle.
