I think nipples blanch after feeds sometimes in response to the pain. I have
discussed this with Chele Marmet who agreed. If the nipple comes out of the
baby's mouth flattened and white, then it is probably caused by compression
of the nipple. But if positioning seems fine and nipple turns white
(briefly) after the feed, this is vasospasm in response to pain (eg thrush).
I find this is much more common than the vasospasm referred to by Laureen
and Carolyn Lawlor-Smith (in these cases the vasospasm lasts longer, recurs
at other times, and is very painful, often exacerbated by cold).
Lisa Amir
GP / IBCLC in Melbourne, Australia
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