Ask Aunty Lactivist – Sore nipples after weaning?
By Lisa Lactivist, on September 12th, 2010
Hi there, my son has just self-weaned at 20 months.
I can’t easily find information on what to expect after weaning, and was surprised to find I am getting sore nipples. Is this normal? I think it may just be a case of slight leakage and then it drying which causes an itch, which unintentionally scratched – perhaps whilst I am asleep, is resulting in soreness.
Any similar experiences or advice on treatment would be gratefully received.
Anon
Aunty Lactivist is all of us so if you have had a similar experience or if you are a professional with knowledge that could help please share it here.
Gosh you are right, I had a google and there is very little on the subject of mums after weaning. The best info I came up with was the fantastic Kellymom on this page http://www.kellymom.com/bf/older-baby/sorenipples-older.html
Kellymom says to check for thrush but does this fit?
” Hormonal changes
Are you ovulating or about to get your period? The hormonal changes at these times can cause sore nipples for a few days. Typically, both sides will be sore. Many moms of older babies are more bothered with latch on during these times, and it may feel as if baby is clamping down or scraping his teeth on the nipple, even though he doesn’t seem to have changed his latch. Mom may also feel generally uncomfortable and even irritated with nursing. Some moms get relief from the soreness by taking evening primrose oil or a calcium/magnesium supplement.
Any chance of pregnancy? Often the first sign of pregnancy for nursing moms is sore nipples. More here on pregnancy and nursing. As with soreness that comes with ovulation or menstruation, both sides will typically be sore since the soreness is caused by hormonal changes.”
I wonder if it is the milk leaking that is causing the problem though, if so sage is famous for stopping breastmilk, you can make tea out of a few leaves of it (put a saucer over the top of the cup while it is brewing) or just cook with it a lot.
Good luck, and please let us know if you find anything that helps and I hope we get some more replies to your problem on here.
Lisa
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