Child Health A-Z

Flat or Inverted Nipples

Techniques for flat or inverted nipples:

An effective breastfeeding baby usually has little trouble breastfeeding even if his/her mother's nipples appear to be flatter. A less effective breastfeeder may need some time to figure out how he/she can draw the nipple into the mouth with latch-on. Although the benefit of using hard plastic breast shells is not conclusive, some mothers find it helps to wear them in the bra between feedings. Breast shells exert a small amount of traction to help draw the nipple outward. Using a breast pump to draw the nipple out just prior to breastfeeding may also help.

If nipples invert, or "dent" inward, with stimulation, try the interventions mentioned for flat nipples. Nipple eversion devices are available. Ask a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) for information. Occasionally, a mother has one or more severely inverted nipples. If one breast is less affected, your baby can breastfeed on only one breast. Most women can produce enough milk in one breast to exclusively breastfeed their babies.

Last Update
February 3, 2008

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