Nipple vasospasm

[TX Mama]

Hi there ladies! I am writing this in hopes that some of you have some info or experience with this. I am still pregnant and currently not breastfeeding yet. I can only find info on this condition as it relates to breastfeeding though and not before. I surf and currently the water here is 59. I get pretty cold to say the least and it seems since I have been pregnant it really effects my nipples. If I stay out too long it literally feels like someone has ripped them off and then rubbed in lemon juice. I have never experienced pain like this and it brings me to tears. When I get home and get my wetsuit off, my nipples are blanched white and purple. A warm shower really helps but they are tender and sore for sometimes a day plus after. Any suggestions? I have not been out recently since it is difficult to lay on my stomach but even just cold weather gets them going? Will I have issues breastfeeding? Anyone have similar issues? Thanks so much!

[3girls1boy]

I don't know if you will have issues breastfeeding, but your symptoms do sound like vasospasm. When I experienced this while nursing, I had good luck with Evening Primrose Oil as a dietary supplement. Look it up online to read about how much to take, etc.

[belltree]

I did get nipple vasospasm from trauma to the nipple. Keeping them warm was so essential during the worst part, it is getting better now, that my nipples are healing.

The other thing that really helps me are breast shells so the clothing does not irritate my nipples further.

[LilMomma83]

It really helps to keep them and yourself warm, I used to wear a blanket over my shoulders while feeding, and I always cover them quickly after a feeding - same during pregnancy.

[PatioGardener]

Jack Newman has good info on this in nursing women. You may want to give his info sheet a read - you can find it here www.drjacknewman.com

[JamieB]

Vitamin B6 took care of my issues with this. Take 150-200 mg once a day for four days, followed by 25 mg/day once a day. You can stop once the pain goes away and then restart if you need to. You won't regret trying this!

[TX Mama]

Thank you for the ideas. I have yet to hear of this happening before birth or breastfeeding. I just have to be different! Luckily the pain quickly subsides for the most part. I am meeting with my midwife Mon and will check with her as well. Thank you all again!