BF Issues

Collier78

Hello All,

I'm currently nursing my 6 month old daughter. We are supplementing a little because my supply dipped when I started exercising. I am currently bringing my calories back up and slowly my supply is increasing. I pump during the day because I work, and I had a question that isn't really diet related. I have found that the nipple on one breast has cracked and will bleed when I pump (but not when my daughter nurses), I have tried pumping on almost the lowest setting but it doesn't seem to help, and it doubles the time it takes me to pump. Today while pumping I bled a little into the expressed milk, giving it a pinkish tinge. Is this okay? Should I dump it? I hate to waste it, but it doesn't seem safe to me. I would appreciate any feedback, or personal experience anyone has had with this. Thanks!

Jenny_Rose77

Don't dump it! According to my lactation consultant, it's good. I tell you this because I dumped a bottle that I bled into the very first time I pumped. And after the fact I told my LC, who was like, "Oh! You shouldn't have done that." Live and learn.

RBXChas

It's ok; you don't need to dump it

Maybe try something to lubricate the flanges? I use a teeny bit of olive oil, and it works wonders!

Pepper2185

I had a biopsy done on one of my breasts, which resulted in some blood getting into my milk. I was assured by my doctor that it was totally fine for my baby to ingest - it's completely sterile, and the baby will just refuse to drink it if it tastes too strange to them (but babies love milk and generally don't care).

And I agree with finding way to lube things up! That's gotta hurt

Mewlingstork

I second the lubrication advice and don't dump that precious liquid out!! Also, maybe the flanges don't fit your nipples? I've noticed my nipples have changed now after a year of breastfeeding. I started with nipples too small for my guy to latch on to and had to use nipple shields to now they are plenty big enough for him. Just a thought; sorry if that was too much info!

kikimama125

Like they said, you don't need to dump it. Would you feel better if you cut it with either formula or breastmilk? But either way, it's fine! I also suggest lubing up for pumping, try lanolin (can be too thick for me), or olive oil. Also, apply breastmilk to the cut after everytime you "use" it. It will help it heal much faster. In fact, if this is a ongoing problem for you, try doing it all the time after each feeding/pumping of both sides. Let air dry. And check your flange fit! The size in the box isn't right for all women. Look into Pumpin Pal flanges. Amazing!

vim_n_vigor

I'd say use coconut oil or olive oil. Lanolin can increase the likelihood of getting a yeast infection. Good luck!

Collier78

Thanks everyone! I will try the lubrication idea, because I have already adjusted the flanges size. I kept the milk to try with her (but I don't think I'll send it in a daycare bottle I appreciate all the responses!

BTW my 7 year old now thinks that mommy can make strawberry milk for the baby...kids!

Collier78

I second the lubrication advice and don't dump that precious liquid out!! Also, maybe the flanges don't fit your nipples? I've noticed my nipples have changed now after a year of breastfeeding. I started with nipples too small for my guy to latch on to and had to use nipple shields to now they are plenty big enough for him. Just a thought; sorry if that was too much info!

I've noticed too! Sometimes I feel like I might choke her..LOL