I figured you might be a good group to ask.
I have severely inverted nipples...like so bad that numerous dr.'s, lactation consultants and even a breast specialist told me that I won't be able to ever breastfeed with my anatomy the way it is now...not even a breast shield will work.
Now in the hospital they told me that I could pump the entire time and I know many do that, but I just don't want to pump like that.
I was thinking of getting corrective surgery before I have my third so I can breastfeed...does anyone know Anything about this? whether it would work? anyone have this issue? anything? I have never talked about this with anyone besides doctors.
Re: so embarrassed to ask this but....here goes
Has anyone suggested that you pump for a few minutes to bring out the inverted nipple then try to latch? Just something to consider. (the pump will bring the nipple out!)
Otherwise EP is not that bad and I think it's a lot easier than what many women face while trying to latch.
This is my suggestion, pump a few minutes to bring the nipple out, then you should be able to get baby on.
I have inverted nipples too. They were really bad to start and I have had to use a shield since day 1, but after 3 months of nursing and pumping they are almost normal, kinda sorta. I still have to use a shield most of the time but I can get DD to latch now and then without it.
With your previous kids, did you try pumping for a while, like weeks/months to see if that would help change them? My LC told me that eventually mine would turn out and I didn't believe her, but after 3 months it has pretty much happened. They still aren't out like the average woman, but it's enough that DD can get a decent latch sometimes. I haven't heard anything about surgery for the problem but it might be worth looking into if you really want to nurse. Good luck with whatever happens!
BFP #2 March 2011, Baby Girl born November 2011!!!