HELP feeding with very sore nipples

[Racheyg]

My ds2 is 9 weeks and i have had really sore nipples that are cracked and bleeding for 6 days. The right is not to painful but the left I have only managed to feed from twice a day.

I'm really worried that my milk supply will reduce. I haven't fed from the left today as its nearly healed and I want to make sure it heals but if I don't feed on this side for a day will it effect my supply that quickly?

Thanks x

[Inpup]

nipple shields - boots own brand.
Not feeding on one side will make you engorged that side - you will then have to express/pump which may be just as painful as feeding from it.
Shields really are marvellous.

[lostindubai]

Get lansinoh nipple cream pronto. It will honestly save your life. Apply after every feed and you'll heal up in no time. I remember that pain well. Sympathies!

[lostindubai]

Btw not feeding from one side puts you at risk of mastitis so you must break through that pain barrier if you can

[BaguetteMaid]

Check the latch is alright for your left boob- are you right handed or left handed? Maybe try the rugby hold to see if that improves it? God I had terrible bleeding cracked nipples (then nipple thrush which was a fucker!) make sure you use breathable nipple pads and air dry them after feeding if you can. And express a little milk to rub on your nipples to help heal them. And pump to keep your supply up on lefty in between feeds. I wasn't a fan of lansinoh but people swear by it.

[Racheyg]

Thanks guys. I've been applying lansinoh all the time and airing when I can. I have been using my hand to express as my pump (new) is the reason I'm in this mess. Milk is just pouring out the left.

I'm right handed, he seems to latch on ok, can hear gulps and see swallowing so I know he is getting milk.

It's just so heart breaking when you have reached 9 weeks then feel you can't continue. X

[lostindubai]

Aww sounds like you've been doing brilliantly though OP. Don't give up if you don't want to. There are lots of things you can try. Don't forget to take paracetamol and ibuprofen to help with the pain.

Give up on the pump until a later date. Maybe hand express the whole breast as much as you can under a warm shower to clear any potential blockages.

[machair]

Avent nipple cream worked wonders for me. Going braless also helped. Hope better soon