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Suggest Remedy For Inverted Nipples

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Posted on Thu, 19 Nov 2015
Question: Hello Madam,
This is xxxxx
I have one question that is my baby one month old but she is not taking directly milk from breast, we have to attaché nipple on breast and then only she can start sucking. We tried so many times to give her direct feeding without nipple but she didn’t.
We are worried about this, when she will be started normal taking the milk without nipple.
Please guide us.
Thanks & Regards,
xxxxxxx
doctor
Answered by Dr. Archana Verma (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Inverted or retracted nipple can be the cause

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX

The problem in attachment while breastfeeding occurs usually due to Retracted or Inverted nipples in mother. In order for a baby to nurse effectively, she must be able to grasp the nipple and stretch it forward and upward against the roof of her mouth. Flat or inverted nipples may make it difficult for your baby to nurse. Nipple shield or Artificial nipple attachment helps in this regard. But its a temporary solution. So, your concerns are completely right. Don't worry. The retracted nipples can be easily corrected by following measures:

1. Place the thumbs of both hands opposite each other at the base of the nipple and gently but firmly pull the thumbs away from each other. Do this up and down and sideways. Repeat this exercise twice a day at first, then work up to five times a day.
2. use of breast pumps also helps in drawing out nipples by suction.
3. use the above methods several times daily. The condition usually improves in a week.
4. Ensure proper position and attachment of baby. You may use books or online reading for this information.

Do not worry. Your baby will definitely learn the technique.
I would be happy to help you in any further questions.
Take care
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Archana Verma

Pediatrician

Practicing since :2006

Answered : 1129 Questions

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Suggest Remedy For Inverted Nipples

Brief Answer: Inverted or retracted nipple can be the cause Detailed Answer: Hi XXXXXXX The problem in attachment while breastfeeding occurs usually due to Retracted or Inverted nipples in mother. In order for a baby to nurse effectively, she must be able to grasp the nipple and stretch it forward and upward against the roof of her mouth. Flat or inverted nipples may make it difficult for your baby to nurse. Nipple shield or Artificial nipple attachment helps in this regard. But its a temporary solution. So, your concerns are completely right. Don't worry. The retracted nipples can be easily corrected by following measures: 1. Place the thumbs of both hands opposite each other at the base of the nipple and gently but firmly pull the thumbs away from each other. Do this up and down and sideways. Repeat this exercise twice a day at first, then work up to five times a day. 2. use of breast pumps also helps in drawing out nipples by suction. 3. use the above methods several times daily. The condition usually improves in a week. 4. Ensure proper position and attachment of baby. You may use books or online reading for this information. Do not worry. Your baby will definitely learn the technique. I would be happy to help you in any further questions. Take care