Awfully sore nipples when PMSing

[McGucks]

My LO is 19 months and still nurses many times a day.  I have had really bad nipple pain during nursing for a week to 10 days before I get my period.  It begins when he latches on and lasts the entire session.  I am not going to wean or anything, but wanted to see what other moms had to say.  Is this normal?  Any ideas on making things more comfy?  Nipple shields and I don't get along.

Thanks, mamas.

[CheriK]

Taking a calcium/magnesium/zinc supplement has helped me, although it doesn't completely eliminate it.  Instead of "pain" it's just discomfort, which I can tolerate.  The first couple of months after my cycles resumed, I though we had thrush (actually treated w/ gentian violet once) until the timing w/ menstruation dawned on me.  Kellymom recommends the calcium supplement for decreased milk supply associated w/ menstruation, but it also seems to help w/ the general discomfort.  Evening primrose oil might help, also. http://www.kellymom.com/bf/older-baby/sorenipples-older.html