Many women who have inverted nipples worry about how breastfeeding will work for them. Here’s everything you need to know about pumping with inverted nipples.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click a link and purchase something, I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I love! More information here.
What are inverted nipples?
Inverted nipples do not point outward, they retract inwards. Up to 10-20% of women are born with one or both nipples inverted.
Can you pump with inverted nipples?
Yes! When I asked exclusive pumpers what their experience was with this on Instagram, most people said that they had few or no issues pumping with inverted nipples.
Some responses included:
Mine popped out permanently after two months of exclusively pumping. I didn’t need to do anything special.
I exclusively pumped twice with inverted nipples – the pump pulled them out and they were fine.
Mine became ‘normal’ after pumping for a little while – it didn’t seem to affect supply.
A few people did mention some initial discomfort:
It may be uncomfortable pumping at first but it gets better with time.
It will be a bit uncomfortable as the adhesions that make your nipple inverted are always being pulled.
Things to watch out for when pumping with inverted nipples
Here are a few things to be careful of if you’re pumping with inverted nipples.
1. Flange size
Lots of people mentioned that getting the correct flange size is both really important and difficult to nail down.
You may want to consider getting professionally sized for breast shields. Other people suggested getting a big box of silicone flange sizing inserts to see what works best for you.
Want help with exclusively pumping from birth?
2. Nipple alignment
It’s important to center your nipple in your breast shield when you pump. Sometimes, nipple damage can result when flanges aren’t aligned properly.
It can be a little more difficult to get the correct alignment when you have inverted nipples. It might help to use the flashlight on your phone or to stop and re-adjust after the first minute or so of pumping.
3. Massage and head may help
Some people mentioned that doing breast compressions helped with output when pumping. Others mentioned using heat was beneficial (such as a warm compress or warming massager).
Do you have experience pumping with inverted nipples? Tell us any tips you have in the comments.
Leave A Reply!