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Infant feeding

Get advice and support with infant feeding from other users here.

Breastfeeding pain - what’s normal?

2 replies

Hippo2021 · 21/01/2022 20:30

LO is 15 weeks and I’ve BF from day one. We’ve had various issues - tongue tie, shallow latch, thrush - all of which have been addressed and supposedly sorted. But… every feed/pumping session is still so painful.

My letdown feels like needles being pushed through my nipples and my boobs are constantly sore, empty or full. I avoid hugging anyone because it’s so painful. And my nipples feel like they’ve been sandpapered and bleed on and off. The slightest movement inside my bra or if a bit of clothing brushes them when I’m preparing to feed makes my teeth jangle. Just thinking about the pain makes me shudder. I use lanolin cream religiously after every feed/pump and use breast shields for every BF.

I can’t believe every BF mum is in this much pain after 15 weeks or no-one would carry on, surely?! Or is this just another stupid motherhood lie and everyone’s silently screaming while feeding their baby??!

It’s really getting me down as I dread every feed. I love my cuddles with LO but I struggle to hold him sometimes because my whole chest is so sore. And any bonding while BF feels non-existent now because I just have to focus hard on something else to get through it.

Anyone else had this? Or am I insane for persevering??!

OP posts:
Narutocrazyfox · 22/01/2022 08:33

I had this, OP - the pain was toe-curling, and I could barely shower as even water touching my boobs hurt. My nipples bled for weeks. The intense pain started to decrease by 6 weeks, but feeding was still painful for at least another 2 months before settling down. My baby had excellent latch as well!

I also found letdown very uncomfortable. However, it might be worth checking with your Dr that you haven't got mastitis, or any blocked duct issues.

It can take a very long time to settle down, but once it does it's brilliant! Very well done on persevering OP, you're giving your little one the very best start. Big hugs! X

littlebutterfly185 · 22/01/2022 08:38

I swear no one tells you just how much breastfeeding can hurt! I had this for about until my LO was about 18-20 weeks. Honestly the pain was unreal and yes I did silently cry sometimes when he wanted to feed. I used lanolin (tubes & tubes) and it did help but I had to make sure I applied loads after every feed (not a pea sized amount!) I also used reusable breast pads which were just a tiny bit less harsh than disposable. I also used to try to air my boobs every night.

I just wanted to say you're not alone and you're doing a wonderful job! It did ease and now breastfeeding really is the easiest and most convenient way to feed my DS. congratulations on your LO.

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