Nipple Pain...White Nipple...Nipple Vasoconstriction

It is common to have nipple discomfort, even pain with the start of breastfeeding.  I am sure most of us haven't had a vigorously sucking, hungry human being on our breast for 4 or more hours a day.  Often the cause is simply just that.  The other big reason is improper latching on.  But, what if you continue to have pain when the latching on is correct and enough time has passed that you should be used to it?  Take notice of what your nipples look like at the start and finish of breast feeding or throughout the day if you have discomfort not associated with feeding. 

Sometimes, if the baby isn't latching on correctly, there might be a white line where the nipple is pinched.  But if you find that your whole nipple is white (with lack of blood flow), you may be experiencing nipple vasoconstriction.  And this may or may not be associated with the feed.  The nipple becomes white and often there is accompanying pain and discomfort and extra sensitivity in the nipple.  The color (white, blue, red)returns when blood flow is returned.  It isn't common but does happen to some women, me included.

I found that the best thing for it and me was to keep my breast  warm.  I only experienced it on one side which is common.  I started with warm showers allowing the warm water to run over the affected breast.  But, with water saving measures in mind, there are other options.  When I was done feeding, I immediately dried and covered my nipple (with my bra).  Eventually, when these measures weren't enough, I purchased "breast warmers".  I got these through the Australian Breastfeeding Association.  They are little fabric pad with little metallic threads running through to trap the heat.  I wore them on both breasts under my bra. 

Eventually as time went on...by around 3 months, the problem had gone away.  But, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, discuss with your Maternal Child Health Nurse, OB, or regular doctor in case there are any other solutions to this problem or even any other underlying problems.