I thought it got easier? 3 1/2 wks in & in MORE pain....

Richardsmom_817 · November 2014

I found BF'ing to be very painful when I started & I truly feel like I am in more pain than I was in the beginning...these poor things need a break!!!! I was just in tears.....so sad, I didn't want to give in to formula.

sweetbabyrahe · November 2014

I'm no expert because I've been lucky to never really have pain with BF, but have you talked to an LC? If it's still painful they may have some recommendations. Is it the nipples or the whole breast that hurt? Have you tried a nipple shield?

tigerpawie · November 2014

I concur, definitely talk to a LC and find out why you are in constant pain. I would also look into thrush. I had undiagnosed thrush with DS for several months. I was in constant pain. After many visits to my dr and LCs... My midwife finally diagnosed me with thrush. I and DS didn't have the typical symptoms but after it was cured, bf'ing was a breeze.

I just want to add that I don't want this comment to sound like in pressuring you to continue with BF'ing. Formula feeding is totally fine if you prefer to go this route. I am a strong believer in this quote: 'happy mama, happy baby'

If you want to continue bf'ing, definitely don't rule out the possible causes you are in pain and nothing wrong with supplementing w formula to give yourself a break and same time figure out the reasons.

turtles7 · November 2014

I'm so sorry you are in pain. I've been following your posts on the bf board as I have been experiencing similar issues. I had severe cracking and bleeding so I took a day off from breastfeeding and pumped to give my nips a break. The pain didn't completely go away but it gave them a chance to heal then the next thing I worked on was her latch. Still not 100% pain free but it's getting better. I really hope you get some relief.

Richardsmom_817 · November 2014

I couldn't finish feeding him it was so bad so I gave him some I pumped yesterday.....I just finished pumping & got only 2 1/2 oz, so that will be the next feeding....doesn't seem like much....I don't know how I'd keep up with him as he gets older/bigger!