The last part of Chapter #5, Marcela Rios, doula and breastfeeding counselor, talks about how different nipple types
can affect breastfeeding and what you can do about it.
Shape Doesn’t Define Success
“The female nipple plays a fundamental role in feeding the baby, transporting breast milk to the newborn through the ducts that connect the nipple to the mammary glands. There are different types of nipples that differ in their shape, size, color and even prominence. Nipples can be classified as protruding, flat, false inverted and real inverted, with some of them being less favorable for breastfeeding than others.
Flat and inverted nipples can bring more complexity to breastfeeding, often resulting in difficulty for the baby to latch on the breast. We know that 10% of the pregnant population has non-protractile nipples, that is, nipples that do not protrude sufficiently, even when compressed. And we also know that the baby needs to latch not only on the nipple but also in the areola for the latch to be effective, so the flexibility of the nipple must be evaluated as much as it's shape.
Sometimes, the low flexibility of the areolar tissue combined with shorter and wider nipples can make it difficult for the baby to properly latch to the breast, as he does not feel the nipple touch his palate during breastfeeding. So, what can I do during pregnancy if I have a flat or inverted nipple? NOTHING!
You don’t need to use silicone shells or do nipple exercises during pregnancy! But there are several actions you can take as soon as the baby is born (or during his arrival)! The first of them is related to birth: physiological birth brings benefits to breastfeeding and should be the first option whenever possible. Encouraging breastfeeding in the first hour after birth and making skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby also help a lot. To breastfeed in different positions, in addition to continuing to prioritize skin-to-skin contact (when breastfeeding, bathing, etc.) in the days that follow. And last but not least: stimulate the breasts immediately before breastfeeding (with hand expression, breast pump, Latch Assist, or Niplette). Some nipples may be unfavorable for breastfeeding, but many are capable of breastfeeding very successfully. Always seek professional help!” 😊
Writen by Marcela Rios | Doula, childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor
Posted on Instagram @barbaracrepaldiphoto on September 5, 2024.
≫ These images are part of the “Breastfeeding Moment” project by photographer Barbara Crepaldi, with the support of doula Marcela Rios. The goal of this project is to share valuable information and create beautiful memories for the featured mothers. Every two months, Barbara Crepaldi Photography will host a raffle for subscribed women. The winner will receive a studio breastfeeding shoot, and her photos and story will be featured on Instagram and here.
For more information on how to participate, please visit the instagram page @BarbaraCrepaldiPhoto.
