Breastfeeding with Pierced Nipples

Breastfeeding with Pierced Nipples

If you are asking yourself, “Can I breastfeed with pierced nipples1?” then the short answer is absolutely! Breastfeeding with pierced nipples, or previously pierced nipples, is not an issue you or your baby need to fret over. There is no evidence that having pierced nipples will affect your breastfeeding relationship.

The Issue with Piercings

Some mothers do, however, notice an increase in clogged ducts while breastfeeding with pierced nipples. Consider the anatomy of a nipple and the surrounding breast tissue: The nipple itself is porous (milk flows from many different holes), while the breast is primarily fatty tissue with several passages the milk flows through to reach the nipple. When you pierce the nipples, the new hole creates scar tissue which blocks off and reroutes some of the natural anatomy.

Though most women do not have issues, you should consult a lactation consultant if you are dealing with excessive clogged milk ducts.

How To Breastfeed with Pierced Nipples

As a new mother, I removed a majority of my piercings in my pregnancy with my oldest child. This included my nipple piercings. Should you decide to keep your piercings through breastfeeding, all you have to do is remove the jewelry before nursing. NEVER breastfeed with jewelry on your nipple. Not only would it be difficult to establish a healthy latch, but the jewelry can pose a choking hazard for your child.

Since newborn babies nurse so often, it is often easier to just remove your nipple jewelry for the first few weeks. Though the schedule will continue to change this first year, newborns often eat every few hours and throughout the night. Your piercings will hold, so just take the easy road and tuck those barbells away for a while.

You can keep your body modifications as a part of your individual identity as a breastfeeding mother. No one should tell you otherwise, as it is perfectly safe to breastfeed with pierced nipples (by simply removing the jewelry, of course). Rest easy, friend, in knowing that you’re one badass mama!

Original article and pictures take www.breastfeedingplace.com site