I have to say in my experience as an obstetric nurse for 17 years, the IV fluids that we administer to moms is indeed significant because it causes "third-spacing", or generalized edema. Our patients walk into the labor suite already anticipating and requesting an epidural. The anesthesiologists want 2 liters of IV fluid given quickly before they even start the epidural to prevent hypotension. Then comes the hours of pitocin and IV fluids, numerous epidural "top-offs" and more fluid boluses, etc, etc. So, I see a mom who walked into the hospital with protuberant nipples, now postpartum with much flatter nipples, impeding latch-on. This edema can take up to 3 days to mobilize out. Just another example of high-tech obstetrics. Stacey Richards RNC, IBCLC NYC