Know Your Nipples

When the nipples are not well formed they are flat in shape and are called flat nipples.

You will know whether you have flat nipples by just looking at them. If you are unable to make out the shape of your nipples, then check with your doctor. It is best to check this while you are pregnant.

In case you have flat nipples, your doctor will prescribe some moisturiser with which you will have to massage your nipples to pull them out.

Generally, your nipple protrudes from the areola (the dark portion surrounding your nipple) when aroused or in cold climates. While you are pregnant, the nipples generally protrude. If they don’t, then you most probably have flat nipples.

How Do I Breastfeed then?

Flat nipples are likely to interfere with breastfeeding as your baby will be unable to latch on properly.

However, if you have flat nipples, you can try pulling them out before breastfeeding.

If they do not protrude even after pulling, then you can use a syringe to pull them out, by way of suction.

You could also try using nipple shields for a few days and then try breastfeeding.

In extreme cases, the nipples are deeply embedded in the breast tissue. Then, they are called inverted nipples. For inverted nipples, you can use a breast pump as an option. You will need to express milk with the breast pump and then feed your baby.

Flat nipples are usually a problem only in your first pregnancy and goes away once you use the techniques mentioned.

(With Inputs from: Dr. Duru Shah, gynaecologist and obstetrician, Breach Candy Hospital and Dr. Vanita Raut, gynaecologist and obstetrician, L. H. Hiranandani Hospital)