Let’s be real, breast pumping can take some getting used to, and when you first start pumping, it’s normal to experience some slight discomfort. When that discomfort crosses the threshold intopain, however, there may be cause for concern… and good reason to contact your doctor or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Learn how to problem-solve your pumping pain, and when to bring in an IBCLC.
Signs That Something Isn’t Right
If you feel sharp pain in your nipple or your breast, deep breast pain after pumping, stinging, severe nipple redness or blanching, bruising or blisters—do not keep pumping through the pain! Doing so can jeopardize not only your quality of life, but your milk supply. Pain is a chemical deterrent to oxytocin, the hormone responsible for the release of breast milk. Plus, left unaddressed, these painful experiences could cause infection or tissue damage. When pumping causes these symptoms, it’s best to talk to your doctor or IBCLC right away.
How Should Pumping Feel?
Using your pump should feel similar to breastfeeding, with a bit of pressure and light tugging. When your breasts are engorged or clogged, pumping should even feel like a relief! If breast pumping starts to feel unbearable, you know there’s a problem.
Possible Causes of Pumping Pain
Flanges That Don’t Fit
Incorrect flange size is a common culprit for nipple pain. Flanges that are too small may cause excess friction, pinching, or squeezing. If your flanges are too large, your areola will be pulled into your breast pump’s flange tunnel. Learn how to choose flanges that fit here.
Too Much Suction
For some, too strong of a suction setting can cause pain and swelling. Remember, more suction doesn’t necessarily mean more milk removal, so be gentle with yourself.
Breast or nipple problems
If your flange size and pump settings seem right and you’re still experiencing pain, breast or nipple issues could be the root of your problems. Check for the following:
Nipple Damage
If your baby’s latch has damaged your nipple, and it’s still in the process of healing, pumping can cause further irritation.
Bacterial Infection
Sometimes, cracked or sore nipples become infected, which could lead to further inflammation and even mastitis.
Yeast overgrowth
Also called thrush, yeast overgrowth can cause a burning sensation. Damaged nipples are usually more susceptible to thrush than healthy tissue, so it’s important to investigate the root cause.
Fibroids
Breast tissue fibroids can cause pain when milk pushes against them. Although it may sound counterintuitive, expressing your milk more frequently could help relieve some of that pressure.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon
This rare blood vessel disorder can cause painful blanching, coldness, and a blue tinge to your breast tissue.
Please note: all of these symptoms are reasons to consult your doctor immediately!
If you haven’t identified the root of your pumping pain or you think you may have a breast or nipple issue, it’s important to call your doctor or IBCLC. You deserve to feel healthy and comfortable when pumping (and always!). A medical professional can target issues and help you design a strategy for painless—even pleasant—pumping.
When might a breast pump be useful ?
If a baby is not able to breastfeed-removing breast milk from the breasts frequently will stimulate your milk supply and provide a supplement to keep your baby well fed until he is able to breastfeed.Pumping eight to ten times a day is often suggested as a useful guide if a newborn is not breastfeeding directly at the breast.Using a breast pump can be more efficient and less tiring than hand expression if milk needs to removed very regularly.
Post time: Aug-11-2021