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Need help on plugged nipple!

 

 
NAME: Karen
BABY'S NAME: Kyle
BABY'S AGE: 6.5 months
BABY'S PRESENT WEIGHT: 17 lbs, 15 oz  at 6 mo.
BABY'S BIRTH WEIGHT: 6 lbs, 10 oz

I have a recurring plugged nipple opening (not plugged duct). I try soaking the nipple in warm water prior to nursing/pumping. It is only marginally successful. Any other ideas?




 

Dear Karen,

Any plugged opening will benefit from warm compresses, so you are doing the right thing. Massage is also beneficial. Dr. Ruth Lawrence, author of Breastfeeding: A Guide for the Medical Profession" says that adding lecithin to your diet can be very beneficial. I have suggested this to numerous women throughout the years. All have had good success. Lecithin is an oil that you can buy at health food stores. One tablespoon per day is the suggested amount. It is usually sold in capsules, so you may need to open them the first time to measure how many you need to make a tablespoon. Also, be sure your bra is not too tight--that can lead to plugs.

Cher Sealy, RN, BSN, IBCLC, LLLL






 

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