Nursing... Not what I expected

allisontakesontwo · July 2015

So for whatever dillusional reason I just figured nursing wouldn't be a problem and didn't give much thought to it besides deciding I wanted to nurse. It has been so frustrating since I had her on Tuesday. She is definitely not latching correctly so it is causing me a lot of pain when she eats. I've tried different techniques and positions but doesn't seem to make a difference! I'm just frustrated.. And sore! Anyone have similar experience or advice??

jaquex3 · July 2015

*Lurking from Aug, do you have a lactation specialist you could see? They can really help a lot with latch, even if you just call for advice. I also heard great things about kellymom.com or maybe try a breast feeding class in your area. Good luck!

2babes3angels · July 2015

One of my good friends didn't feel gooI about breastfeeding for a couple of months for similar reasons. Not sure if that's entirely encouraging, other than to say you're definitely not alone. I feel like sometimes we set such high expectations for ourselves that when something goes slightly askew, it feels like the end of the world (I am 100% talking about myself here). Give yourself some grace. It may take some time but you and baby will get the hang of it

PixieBeck · July 2015

You should have a WIC office in your area they can put you In touch with a Lactation consultant. In our county/state you have the option of having a nurse visit your home after the baby is born. They usually help with these sort of problems. Best wishes.

cls2015 · July 2015

Have you tried a breast shield? It could help you a lot in the beginning and then you can ween her off of it after awhile.

Alyssakoch3 · July 2015

Nipple shield saved my life! My LO was doing well nursing until my milk came in and then wouldn't latch at all. I put on the shield and she latched instantly and it barely hurts at all! I highly suggest trying one

good luck!

AziaNick · July 2015

What she said! Nipple shield

audi681 · July 2015

www.zipmilk.org

A proper latch still hurts for a bit. I'm just 9 days into it and I think my nipples are finally toughening up. I was told, by the LC, that you want to see the bottom and top lip splayed out. Sometimes, after latching and initial pain, I pull a little on the baby's chin to get the inside of the bottom lip to show itself. It makes it more comfortable.

maybebaby84 · July 2015

I'd get in touch with a lactation consultant. They usually have them at hospitals. If you can't find one you could always look for your local La Leche League. I haven't had my little one yet, but I'm worried I'll have the same issues. I have friends that had some trouble early on, but once they went to a consultant they found comfortable ways to get things going. Good luck!

jerzegirl201 · July 2015

By law if your insurance covered a breast pump they will also cover a lactation consultant that is IN NETWORK. Typically the consultant at the hospital are in network. Definitely call first thing to.orrow. The longer you wait the harder it will get.

Miz_Liz · July 2015

Breast feeding sucks in the beginning, there is no way to sugar coat it. I remember feeling like a failure at first because in the BF'ing class they said, "If you are doing it right and the latch is correct, it should never hurt." BS!!!! However, what they should tell you is how hard it is, that you are not alone, what resources are available to you, and that it WILL get better! It truly will. I am not looking forward to the first few weeks of BF'ing again with this one, but having done it with my son, I know it gets better and I know how good it is for him, how much cheaper than formula it is, and how much more convenient it is than making bottles, warming bottles, washing bottles, etc. Hang in there mama, it really really gets better - promise! Also, if you can't find a lactation consultant to see at your hospital, check with your pediatrician's office, mine had one who helped me out some when we were already home with our son. Hang in there, you are not alone!

ashleytiff · July 2015

Im seeing a lactation consultant tomorrow.
She came to talk to me at the pediatricians and gave me a hospital grade breast pump to rent for the month because my son is having a hard time latching or I'm just not getting him in a comfortable enough position.
I'm supposed to feed him every 2-3 hours and pump after feedings for 15 minutes.
Hoping we can figure something out tomorrow cause I just feel like a milk machine right now.

aschoppers · July 2015

I failed to nurse my first two because I had no support or understanding during the first hours/days. This time I'm more knowledgeable from years of listening to other women talk about breastfeeding. Lactation consultants were never available, off or out of town. Keep posting and talking to others. Don't give up too fast, may cause or increase post partum depression later on.

mascrs · July 2015

My little man was not latching correctly for the first day or so, which caused my nipples to crack and bleed. Once I saw the lactation consultant and she helped him latch correctly, it still hurt when he breastfed due to the wounds that were still lingering from him not latching correctly. All I can say is DONT GIVE UP! It does get better. I started using an all natural nipple cream that helps them to heal quicker. It isn't instant relief, but if you consistently use it after very feeding, it will get better/ less painful!

Also, once your milk comes in, the baby won't have to suck so hard to get the nutrients. That will make it easier on you, as well! Good luck with everything!

audi681 · July 2015

IMO heat feels better than cold after nursing. When my nipples get cold and tighten it feels awful in my bra. I bought "peas" at CVS in the external pain section. You can freeze them or microwave them. Highly recommend shoving them in your bra after nursing and applying Lansinoh.

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