FTM- Is this normal?

kbieschke · February 2012

My DS is 1 week old and i've been exclusively BFing since he was born. (Some background) The lactation consultant at the hospital gave me nipple shields to use with him because DS has a very small mouth and does not open very wide to latch. Just in the last couple days he has actually started flanging well.

I was just wondering if its normal for my nipples to hurt (it feels like i have hickies on both my nipples). Once milk starts flowing i feel fine, but right when he latches on it hurts like the dickens

Is this normal? or should i set up an appointment with the lactation consultant? Have you ladies ever met with one (for like a one on one consult) do you know how much they cost? (I'm a stay at home mom, so price is of concern to me)

Thanks for all your help

tokenhoser · February 2012

I has pain on latching for about 3 weeks. It got better over time, and then just faded away. I never had any damage (cracks, blisters), so I just rolled with it. I think he just got bigger and more coordinated.

La Leche League is a great resource for "is this normal" questions. You can talk to a leader for free and she can let you know if an LC is worth the money and effort for your issue. I mean, we're here too, but sometimes it's nice to talk to a person. 1-877-4-LALECHE (1-877-452-5324)

mommy0411 · February 2012

That is very normal especially a week in! Using lanolin will help your nipples heal if they are cracked and sore! Good luck!

kami1977 · February 2012

It is normal for a couple of weeks. One LLL leader I know describes it as feeling similar to sunburn pain. If it persists or becomes worse I would check with a lactation consultant.