Alicia's story of the 10-week old baby who suddently went to the
breast reminded me of a mother who suppressed after a couple of weeks
because the baby was unable to feed at the breast, sore nipples, etc.
(I did not know her then).  About 14 months later she had a
stillbirth.  Seeking comfort in her distress (emotional and
engorgement) she offered her breasts to her 14-mo son.  He apparently
breastfed with pleasure and the necessary skill and they continued
for another year with no difficulties.  She describes this special
relationship with her son as being an enormous comfort during her
grieving.

I have also worked with a mother who pumped because her nipples
disintegrated every time her baby went near them.  After a couple of
months she was able to do the night feeds at the breast in bed and
give her nipples the day to recover.  However, he never sucked
properly and her nipples were always squashed and creased after
being in her mouth.

Ros Escott
[log in to unmask]
"In every work the beginning is the most important part,
especially in dealing with anything young and tender." Socrates