I was breastfeeding my baby for several weeks post birth, however it got more & more painful. I couldn't bare the pain any longer (tongue tie was cut, had appts with lactation consultant etc but no luck). I didn't want to 'give up' so I just expressed. However the pain hasn't gone away, it's probably worse. The nipple pain is horrific while I express, like hot needles being shot into my nipples (to the point I want to throw up). I can't even hold my baby on my chest because my boobs feel soooo tender, they feel so bruised & I can't stand anything to touch the skin. Surely this isn't normal? This is my first baby. I've mentioned it to a couple of Drs, but they didn't really say much, so I figured it's normal, but I can't keep going on like this!! Is this really what it should feel like?
5 Replies
Some people have no issues others find it really painful. Personally if it was that painful I would stop and switch to formula, insist your doctor checks it out though.
No its not normal I wouldn't do it if it hurt!
Go to a midwife or women's health Centre and find out. You might have an infection. You could try wearing a nipple shield that helps prevent pain but the pain you feel sounds intense.
I started expressing after I had mastitis and some problems with latching. I was so sore , but I don't remember a stabbing pain.
I do remember the bruised feeling, though.
I actually went back to breastfeeding after almost a month because I just couldn't bear it. And once we'd sorted out the latch problems, it was actually really lovely!
You should consider calling the Australian breastfeeding association. They'll be able to tell you if the pain is normal, advice you on how to help make it more comfortable, or help you to go back to breastfeeding.
BUT.
It's important for you to know that you won't be 'giving up' if you give your child formula.
You've done such a great job already! There's no need for you to go through such an unbearable pain.
Good luck x
This could be DMER or even thrush on the breasts. Go and see your MCHN or lactation consultant again.
Kelly here - from The Imperfect Mum team
Please go and see a doctor about this (I hope by now you have been able to!) - it may be nothing, but it may be something very serious too. Best to get professional and personal help.
Wish you all the best mum! xKelly