Does breastfeeding pain get easier? 10 weeks in and feeling desperate!

[kittyz]

Hi all

As above, feeding my 10 week old daughter. Had lot of pain in beginning so advised to top up with formula by midwife. Still combination feeding but still with pain. Feel like I’ve tried everything. Had two lactation consultants out, am using nipple shields, tried different positions, balms, cream, compresses, angel cups, APNO cream. Also had my daughter tongue tie released. Everything! But still have pain.

Yesterday started getting shooting pain in my right breast as well as the usual nipple pain

Always wanted to breastfeed, ever since I’ve been young. And so disappointed that it’s been so hard for me.

I’m not worried that she’s not thriving, as she is with the combination of breast and formula.

Suppose I’m looking for positive stories. Some hope from others who experience nipple pain almost daily. Looking for positive stories that there will be an end to this!

Thank you.

Hi,
Sorry ive been off my computer past day...
I'm so glad you got the treatment! Although its not best thing to diagnose just by your words, but because ive been through exactly that (many times/a few babies) I do believe its thrush that is causing the problems. . Its very easy to blame the pain on the positioning, but you've had 2 lactation consultants out so you know its not that, plus you have the stabbing pains now !
You got a dose of 50mg- it is a very low dose.

I just managed to check what I had and also recommended by NHS as below:
FLUCONAZOLE capsules:
400mgs, first dose then
200mgs daily for 14 days.
See link below for NHS guideline, maybe you can show your doctor.
www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/48_Community+services+Wandsworth_Breastfeeding+with+thrush.pdf
Or try the low dosage first see if it has completely irradiated the symptoms by 3 days time? I'm a bit sceptical to just 'try' the low dosage and then need to up it later and be on the treatment for a longer amount of time..? I'm not sure, but definitely if the symptoms are back after a week or 2 or so after you've finished the lower course, go back to your doctor and get the higher correct dosage.
Feel free to PM me if you need more help, and also be glad to hear good news of your PAIN-FREE FEEDING! (i dont go onto mumsnet very often, I just happened to come on it first time last week and saw your question! so you had G-D looking our for you!)

I was in horrible pain breastfeeding until my son about 14/15 weeks old ! Then all of a suddenly it got better 🤷‍♀️!!

No idea why but I’m just glad breastfeeding got better ! I’m 11 months into our breastfeeding journey and I’m so glad I stuck with it .

I promise you that it does get better !