Hi Lactnetners:
I have permission to post. I am working with a mom with a history of breast surgery who complains of areola pain. She initally had damage to her nipples after birth (5/17/12) and ceased breastfeeding. We spoke on 5/23 to schedule an apt on 5/25. Between when we spoke and when we saw each other, she began putting baby to the breast 5 times a day, though in an akward position sort of hunching over and pointing the nipple in the baby's mouth. In this position, she complained of nipple pain and the nipple was compressed. We worked on getting her a more comfortable laid back position: no more nipple pain or compression. 
During our follow up on 5/29/12 she reported that baby was taking the breast well for every feeding (yay!!) and her nipples had healed but she *was* experiencing a painful pulling or dragging sensation on her areola. She also experienced this while gently washing  her breasts in the shower. Mom has implants and incisions around areola. Any one have any experience with this? 
She asked if there was anything she can do to numb her areola before feeding. I discouraged her from using any numbing agents as they would get in baby's mouth. Other than ice, any suggestions? This mom has worked so hard to overcome a fairly difficult post partum experience and get breastfeeding back on track. 
Thanks, as always, for your wisdom and experience. 

best, 
Amy Bohler, BS, MFA, IBCLC

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