Breastfeeding after a lumpectomy

[anchovies]

I had a lumpectomy a year ago that left a crescent shaped scar around my nipple. The scar tissue is quite thin and I am finding it quite painful to feed my 5 day old ds from that side.

I know that it is worse because my breasts are so engorged but I was wondering whether anybody has had a similar problem or has any suggestions as to what I can do to stop it hurting? I am hoping the skin will toughen quickly but I am getting worried that I am not going to be able to get around it hurting fast enough.

If anyone has any position suggestions, it's on the right hand side of my right nipple. Every position I've tried so far causes the same pulling sensation though.

Here's hoping for some ideas!

No lumpectomy experience thankfully, but I do remember BF was quite tough for the first week or so.

You could try those nipple shields on your right side & perhaps rubbing some oil or breast cream into the scar area ?

Hi anchovies,

I don't have the same experience, but when I started Bf'ing I also found it very painful - I think most women do - and I used the nipple shields like mojomummy suggested. They were an enormous help and made the first two weeks much easier, so I can really recommend them. Once you have been going for a couple of weeks and are settling in to it then you should remove the shields otherwise baby will become too attached to them
Hope this helps - I know it can be really hard but it's worth sticking it out if you can....

bump for the bf queens!

anchovies:

I don't have experience with this kind of surgery, but have you tried Lansinoh in and around your nipples ?

I agree with what others have said, nipples get quite sensitive in the first couple of weeks or so even if you have a very good latch, simply because baby is sucking them all the time !

If you haven't tried Lansinoh (Boots & Mothercare both stock it) already, I recommened it very highly as it stopped me getting dry and cracked nipples. It keeps your entire nipple area hydrated. Use it after each feed.

Good luck !

Thanks for your ideas, had bought some lansinoh already thanks to the wonderful mumsnet recommendations - will stick with using it!

Problem is it's not the same sensation as the sensitive nipples feeling (have got that as well!) it's more of a pulling/tearing sensation on the skin to the side. Maybe nipple shields will be worth a try, the midwives I spoke to in hospital seemed to think I should try to avoid them if at all possible though, is there any reason for this do you know?

bump - anyone got any advice?

Hi Anchovies, I think the reason they advise to steer clear is as Vicmum said - because baby can become too attached to them.

I think they have a good use though...even if you are just using them on your sore side. Worth a try for some pain relief !

I think they can also reduce your supply by up to 40%. However, I used them at the beginning (because of flat nipples) and it was still pouring out of me (would have had your eye out!).

Hi Anchovies. I'm a nurse and I asked the breast care nurses at my hospital about this today. They didn't know for definite but as scar tissue tightens as it heals they thought it probably would hurt if ducts were filling and emptying near it and therefore stretching the scar. Not sure if this helps any and don't know if it will improve. If you want me to ask a plastic surgeon tommorrow for sure I can.

RSF

Just had another thought. If it is too sore to continue feeding from this side, you could continue to feed succesfully from one side only as ladies following mastectomy can. Someone like TikTok will know more about this though. Good luck