Ok, My son is 6 weeks old now, and I have had trouble from the start nursing. He was tongue tied when he was born and it took 3 days for them to find that out. He shredded my nipples so badly he was spitting up blood. The nurses told me to nurse though it and that the pain would end. I pumped and supplemented with formula when it got too sore. Everytime I asked for help I would get told that his latch was perfect.
He was sick a few weeks ago and hospitalized. They discovered that as well as the virus he had, he had thrush. I had no symptoms, but was treated anyway and told it would help with my nipple soreness and painful letdown (signs of thursh I guess). The medication they gave me didn't help, but since his was cleared I painted myself with Gentian violet for a few days. No relief. I was just about to give up but decided to go see a Lactation Consultant with the La Leche League. They examined me and watched him feed. The doctor was called and I was told that I most likely have Primary Raynauds disease in my nipples due to nerve trauma from a poor latch. I was told to continue taking advil and to start applying heat and a special cream for pain. They also suggested that I stop breastfeeding (whether I pump, or formula feed) because he seems to not be able to open his mouth wide enough. I have tried nipple shields, I take advil and apply heat, I latch him as best he and I can. I really do not want to stop breastfeeding him. Sometimes it is the only thing that will calm him and I love the closeness. I hate not being able to hold him against my chest b/c my boobs are so sore, or resenting him for wanting to be fed. Does anyone have any experience with this, or suggestions?
Sorry it's so long. ↓
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