Another Teeth/Teething question

[akind1]

I don't think DS is biting me (FWIW he has 4 top and 2 bottom teeth), but I think perhaps his teeth are coming in contact with my nipple. (I noticed some areas that look almost like his teeth "scraped" my nipples)

The question is, is this normal, or a bad latch, or laziness when he is sleepy/sleeping? and how do I fix it if so?

Also, it doesn't hurt or anything but when I pump at work it is a little uncomfortable.

TIA!

[CheriK]

Sounds like his teeth are rubbing or scraping. Could be latch; it's easy to get lazy with an older baby who latches on pretty much without any help. It may help to pay attention for a few days - remind him to open wide, make sure he isn't slipping down onto your nipple if he nurses to sleep, make sure he opens his mouth when letting go instead of "popping" off (or using your finger to open his mouth if he's asleep, not just pulling your nipple out). Depending on the positions you choose, his top teeth could be resting on your breast & leaving indents, as well. If it doesn't hurt, probably not a big deal.

As far as pumping hurting, do you need a different sized flange? Breasts and nipples change during lactation & sometimes women need a smaller flange size as baby gets older (if a LOT of your breast tissue is being sucked into the flange). Or, could be that you're going to start menstruating soon, which can make your nipples more sensitive (as can pregnancy). If you're noticing redness on your nipples, might want to evaluate for other signs of thrush, even if nursing is still pain-free.

Cheri