Pierced nipples & breastfeeding

[Pippin23]

Hi all, looking for a bit of advice. I used to have one of my nipples pierced, although the piercing was removed over 10 years ago. I'm now 14 weeks pregnant and that nipple is frequently very painful. It's not bothering me too much, but I'm really worried I won't be able to breastfeed on that side - either it won't work or it'll be too painful for me to do it.

Anyone else out there with pierced nips who can share their experience please?!

I think it might be best for you to see your GP to check your nipples are OK, if you are experiencing pain.

It shouldn't be a problem to feed if you've had a pierced nipple as your nipples have many tiny holes all over them that the milk comes from. Even if one or two of the holes have been damaged by the piercing, there should be plenty more that will function just fine.

There's a short article here: BF and Nipple Piercings

and another one from La Leche League: Nipple Piercing

I have been able to breastfeed my eight month old DS without any problems despite having had both of my nipples pierced. I had them removed about ten years ago as well.

Ask your midwife if you are concerned.

Good luck!

Thanks ladies, I feel more reassured now :-) I shall definitely ask my midwife too when I see her in a couple of weeks.

Cheers!

You should be fine you might just get milk spurring out of extra holes. Other than that I hadn't noticed any different. Infact you have just reminded me that I used to have it done. Haha

Makes me think of a watering can for some reason ;-)

Used to have mine pierced and have fed for years . The scars turn a bit inside out sometimes, that's all.