Pumping only from one side?

vinividivici

Hi ladies, I mentioned in Tuesday's LC thread that I have a 3 week old that has been doing well so far with breastfeeding however the past week or so has been painful. My right nipple has felt like its on fire, regardless of what position we try and how much nipple/areola he takes in while nursing. There's no cracking/bleeding, its just painful to the touch and has me at the verge of tears when he nurses on that side.

My question: Has anyone ever had to almost exclusively (or exclusively) pump from only one side? If so, were you successful or did you have any issues with your supply? Is it even do-able long term to pump only from one side? I really want to make this work but the pain has me wanting to quit

I'm planning on visiting the hospital this coming week to see a LC, but meanwhile I'd love any help/tips anyone might have!

vinividivici

I've tried different positions, elevations, a nipple shield, lanolin.. nothing has helped. Even pumping has started to be uncomfortable because my poor nipple hurts so bad.

I bought some Soothies gel pads in hopes they'll help a bit for now. Any other suggestions to help the pain?

JubilantSquirrel

I had the same pain on one side when my LO was about the same age. I pumped from just the painful side and nursed him on the other side for a couple of days until my nipple felt better. I didn't have any supply issues, but I only did it for a couple of days, so I don't know about doing it long term. After that I started expressing a little bit of BM after each feeding and rubbed it on my nipples, I think it helped.

I hope the LC can give you some helpful tips and that your nipple feels better soon!

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vinividivici

Thank you ladies, I really appreciate all of your responses and suggestions! I'm really looking forward to seeing the LC this week and getting some help.

Lauren5905

I had a very similar situation at about that time. I called a LC and it was a lifesaver! I was about ready to give up on my right breast altogether but so glad I didn't.
While I thought he was latching good (and my left side was fine) my LC made me switch exclusively to a football hold which truly makes a deep latch. Also she made me stop using lanolin or any nursing pads. I rubbed a few drops of breast milk on my nipples after feeding to dry on. After 3 days of this my right breast was back to normal and has been ever since even though my LO is now too long for me to football hold anymore.
I hope this helps!