I work in an LDRP unit which is, supposedly "low-risk" OB but we do
periodically see mothers with pregnancy induced hypertension who are
receiving MgSo4.  I have also noticed that many mothers, not necessarily
those with PIH discover that their nipples look very different right
after their babies are born than they did before labor.  My impression
is that this is related to IV hydration which we see almost routinely;
mothers who are induced with Pitocin, mothers who are sectioned and,
unfortunately, many mothers who are in their own uncomplicated labors
(sometimes I wonder if there is such a thing in a hospital setting
anymore!), all receive IVs.  Also, of course, mothers who have
epidurals, which in our hospital happens at a very high rate.  With only
observation and experience to go on, it seems that the IV hydration, by
itself, could account for edema in the breast and areola, leading the
nipple to flatten out.  I also am fortunate to do home visits on many of
our new moms and babies; generally by day 3-5, when I see them at home,
much of this edema is resolved (of course, by that time the milk is in
or coming in, which sets up its own kind of edema!).  Another example,
perhaps, of a hospital caused breastfeeding problem.  In the original
inquiry about this topic, nipple shields were mentioned.  We seldom use
these but do occasionally try breast shells or pre-feed pumping to help
bring out these temporarily flattened nipples.  This sounds like a good
research topic - in my next life, maybe!

______________________________________________________
Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com