Scratched nipple seems to be infected - help!

[malaleche]

DD2 scratched my nipple a few days ago, well not the nipple, the aureoala or whatever its called. It was ok for a couple of days but now hurts like f* whenever she feeds and is swollen and red on one side - anyone had this happen? Is there anything i can put on it that's safe for DD to suck, apart from nipple cream which i dont have? Have docs appointment on Monday for a smear anyway but need some friendly commiseration/advice...

It's horrible isn't it. Have you continued feeding off that side normally? If not, it could be mastitis - a warm damp cloth can take away swelling, as can ibuprofen. The best thing is Lansinoh, which is really pure lanolin basically.

Commiserations though, it's really painful when that happens.

thanks tortoise! i dont think its mastisis as the swelling does seem to be confined just to the surface skin. Am feeding her normally but having to grit my teeth with the pain.

You could try taking paracetamol 15 mins or so before a feed, that helped me. You could also try feeding in a different position, and feed on the other side first, so when she is really hungry and feeding really strongly she's on the other side!

yes, ive been saving that side for second! Was thinking tonight i would try doing an underarm hold but shes 6 mo and quite heavy now, dont know if i could do it.
Can i take paracetamol? i dont take anything when im bfeeding....

paracetamol is fine for b/feeding. So is ibuprofen.