For some reason I’ve been referred to as the Queen of Elastic Nipples, not sure if this is something to be proud of or not. Let's start with a fact, having elastic tissue is not a bad thing, elasticity is completely normal and is to be expected. However it’s when the elasticity becomes too exaggerated that it can present an issue. These issues can range from slight discomfort from friction within the flange to full blown nipple damage. I have experienced both the subtle damage all the way to blistered nipples and open wounds.
How do you know if you have elastic tissue? The best way to describe elastic tissue is if you’re using a flange that is your best fit and you find that your nipple is either expanding to fill the tunnel and/or pulling so far down the tunnel that it’s causing you pain. There’s even nipples that are able to be stretched so long the nipple will repeatedly bounce off the back of your flange tunnel.
**If a substantial amount of areola is being pulled into your flange, it’s more likely your initial concern of elastic tissue may not be the problem. The real issue may be your flange is simply be too large**
So how do we avoid this issue? First and foremost, flange size. Knowing your flange size is critical, especially if you’re an exclusive pumper. We are reliant on adequate removal to keep our supply in demand. When we are using flanges that don’t fit well and are leaving us damaged, there’s a pretty good chance we aren’t moving milk as well as we could be. When we regularly leave milk behind or find our inability to achieve a let down due to discomfort- this can absolutely hinder our milk supply. Click here to learn how to measure for your best flange fit.
So what if you’re using a flange size that measures properly? This is when I would recommend bringing in other options that can help bring comfort to your session; even regardless of elastic tissue. Silicone has been known to help reduce friction and allow the breast tissue to expand more freely when compared to plastic.
There are currently several silicone options on the market:
1 Entirely molded silicone flange such as the LacTeck or Idaho Jones Flanges
use code BREASTFRIEND10 for 10% off at LacTeck
Click the image!
2 Silicone Flange “kits” such as Pumpables or Legendairy Milk Flanges
use code BREASTFRIEND for 10% off at Pumpables
3 Angled silicone flanges such as PumpinPals
4 Silicone breast cushions such as BeauGen or Mompmuri cushions
click here for a real visual of cushions in action
Click HERE for to read the comparsion and explaination between inserts and cushions!
So which one do I recommend? I will be saving this response for another article. I am leaving this share strictly to options not my opinion. However I will recommend starting with an option listed above that doesn’t require regular maintenance or replacement. Cushions are considered a consumable meaning they need regular replacing depending on how often you’re using them. Silicone flanges, even though silicone, do not need to be regularly replaced. The only time silicone flanges would need to be replaced is when and if your flange size needs change or the flanges become damaged. Click here for replacement suggestions
Already damaged, how do we correct this nipple damage? This is the only time I would recommend cushions to start, I have found that when I have active damage, cushions really help soften the blow of the pump and allow me to continue to pump a bit more comfortably while I am able to heal.
Damaged and trying to heal between sessions? There are several options you can choose between, not to be combined unless otherwise instructed.
Silverette® are the original silver nursing cups designed to soothe and protect nipples during the pregnancy and breastfeeding journey. Silver – a naturally antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial metal – contains potent anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to soothe and prevent soreness and pain during the breastfeeding journey.
Put a few drops of milk in the cup before placing on the nipple. Silverettes also come in two difference sizes! If your Silverettes become tarnished, no big deal, see how to clean here
3 MediHoney Paste sold by LactationHub
Supporting healing while providing instant relief.
5 It’s known that moist wound healing is most effective but sharing my experience I found sleeping topless and allowing my nipples to heal in open air was also beneficial. I feel confident when suggesting using a combination of methods may suit your needs depending on the severity of your damage.
Click here to see more on Milk Blebs
Best way to avoid any and all damage is to recognize serious discomfort before it has an opportunity to become a real problem. I won’t sugar coat it, pumping isn’t for everyone, it’s not always the most comfortable but it should not hurt. Regardless of pumping or feeding baby at breast, our toes should not be curling, our nipples should not be bleeding and if this is the case we need to evaluate the WHY ASAP.
TRIGGER WARNING TRIGGER WARNING TRIGGER WARNING
Below is are actual pictures of my own nipple damage. I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel this massacre on my nipple coming on. I was early postpartum with my first singleton (second breastfeeding journey) I had picked up where I left off with my previous journey with the same size flanges; not knowing my size needs had changed. Pumping leading up to this gnarly result in nipple damage was unpleasant and I ignorantly ignored the red flags. Yes, I pumped through the pain leading up to the damage, through the damage and while healing. Once I remeasured my nipples and brought in a pair of breast cushions (see links above) the healing started. According to my photo album history it was only a few days between this photo and the next that my nipple already looked like it was on the tail end of healing.
also check out my Instagram highlight on Nipple Damage here
Don't forget to listen to Tired Moms Club with bemybreatfriend episode on flanges and nipple damage with my friend Tamari Jacob founder of ONEWITHTHEPUMP LISTEN HERE! on Apple LISTEN HERE! on Spotify
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