I have found several times when mothers have presistent, unexplainable nipple
soreness or  nipple sensitivity it is related to emotional state.  I usually
ask (very tactfully) if there has been a previous pregnancy or child loss or
if there is a history of sexual abuse.  These psychological issues can
interfere with mothers ability to tolerate the close physical and emotional
contact involved in breatfeeeding.  It is manifested in physical pain.
Kathleen Kendall-Tackett's work on post-partum depression and breastfeeding
after sexual abuse shed some light on the subject.
Judy Gutowski, IBCLC

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