Last week a mother called me asking if Mamaceram helped solve the problem of an inverted nipple. Much to my regret, this is not the purpose of my product.
I knew this condition existed but after talking to her I started to investigate a little more. I was doubly surprised. On the one hand I was surprised because it is more common than I thought and on the other hand I was surprised by the fact that I saw how many products there are to try to help the nipple come out.
So, I’ll tell you a little bit about everything I researched in case it may be of help to any of you. And of you, because it also affects men.
There are three kinds of nipples. The normal, flat and inverted nipple, as the name itself indicates, the nipple exists but is inverted towards the inside of the areola.
There are two causes of this pathology.
– Congenital, from the moment of birth the ducts and fibrotic bands of the breast are shorter.
– Acquired. It may be the result of an operation, mastitis. It is also a warning symptom if the nipple retracts in adulthood. In this case, a specialist will be visited to find out the origin that causes it.
-Grade I: nipple inversion can be corrected with manipulation. It is maintained when pressure is released and does not interfere with breastfeeding.
-Grade II: the inversion is corrected with manipulation but once we release the pressure, the nipple usually retracts which makes breastfeeding difficult.
-Grade III: Requires a surgical procedure since no pressure system works with the nipple of this grade. Currently, the milk duct is preserved, that is, the tube in the breast that carries milk to the nipple, which would not affect breastfeeding.
This is where Mamaceram can be of help since, above all, they will protect the nipple from the fabrics of clothing, avoiding discomfort, especially the first days after the operation.
They can be done in grades I and II
Hoffman exercises. It consists of gently taking the nipples between your fingers and stretching them outward. Make gentle rotating movements for a few seconds. At first it is advisable to do them twice a day to increase as you practice.
Forming shields: consists of a ring that presses on the areola in this way the nipple comes out. It usually comes with a kind of perforated dome that protects the nipple and allows it to air;
Models, sizes and designs exist many
We have already seen that there are two types of investment grade in which the nipple can be recovered for a few moments and breast-feeding.
I have also explained some exercises to stimulate the nipple but many women do not want to do them because oxytocin is secreted and it can be dangerous for pregnancy. These moms know they have to give up breastfeeding. On the other hand, many other women have performed these exercises without any problems. As I always tell you in these cases, don’t do this alone. Consult your doctor, midwife or go to a breastfeeding support group where they can advise you on what is best for you.
Whenever there is a problem, whether with the nipple, mastitis or most ailments that affect breastfeeding, it is best to stimulate the nipple. And we already know that the best stimulation is what babies give when they suck. When the inverted nipple is Grade I, there is usually no major problem with the baby’s sucking and her “playing.”
If you want, before putting your child to breastfeed, you can stimulate the nipple with a breast pump or a syringe as shown in the illustration.
As I always tell you, whoever perseveres achieves. And breastfeeding is the best thing we can give our children, but it is true that it often becomes hell for moms and despair for babies.
Surround yourself with people who support you and professionals who advise and encourage you. Don’t let an inverted nipple be the reason for not having one.
Happy Breastfeeding!
