I agree that different women have different pain thresholds and will feel
sensations differently (learned this with my two kids) BUT (and this is a
big BUT) I have seen too many mothers who have the most horrible trauma to
their nipples and say, "But I was told some pain was normal so I just kept
at it."

These women often stop breastfeeding, and I feel they have been poorly
served by the hospital nurse/midwife/friend/LC who has told them "It is
normal for breastfeeding to hurt for the first few days."  These mothers
need a definition of what 'hurting' means.

What I tell prenatal mothers or phone line requests for help is:
"Some tenderness is normal (see previous posts for wording) BUT if you are
gritting your teeth or curling your toes, there is a problem with the latch
and you need help!!!!" The mothers identify with this definition easily.

Michelle Bentley, CLE

----- Original Message -----
From: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, February 08, 2002 9:12 AM
Subject: Re: LACTNET-Breastfeeding or pumping hurting


> I think we do a disservice when we tell women they will experience no
pain.
> First, each woman has a different pain level.  ...Second, when the mother
and baby are initially learning how to
> breastfeed mothers often experience nipple tenderness in the first 2-4
days.
> ... Once they understand
> this is normal and will dissipate soon they can settle back and relax.
Sue,
> IBCLC, LLLL
>

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