Bruised nipples

[Summer1216]

I just had to start back at work, and my 7mo old DS has been needy when I get home. So I've been letting him sleep in bed with me. I'm worried that he's not eating enough during the day. He's also been waking up a lot, so he wants constant comfort. I feel badly for him, and want to give him the time he doesn't get with me during the day... but if I'm nearby he wants to be fed and wakes up completely if not fed immediately.

I let him do it the first night - the problem is that he loses a good grip (while I'm asleep) then just starts sucking on the tip.

Now my nipples ache terribly. I was pumping, and noticed that they're all purple and bruised looking.

How do you heal bruised nipples when the baby is still eating constantly?

[oregonianmama]

Ouch that sounds painful, I am sorry you are going through that. What your baby is doing is completely normal, it's called reverse cycling, and it often happens when mothers go back to work. As for the nipple pain, just do everything you can to ensure a good latch throughout the night. Could you sleep with your arm around him? Or maybe you could put a small rolled up blanket behind his back so that he stays close to your breast. Good luck! Lansinoh might help in the meantime.

[Nikole224]

Ouch is right! You're such a trooper in wanting to cuddle with your son at night. He's got a great mama. Is it possible that when he dozes off, to unlatch him but keep him close enough to nuzzle with your breast? That way he's still touching but doesn't have the tip of your nipple in your mouth. Keep searching for different ideas. A LLL might be able to give you some more ideas as well. You're doing great!