Anne,
I agree with your clarification. The couple of moms whom I have seen with
the blanching nipple problem usually blanched rather spontaneously
*after* nursing, and it was apparent that the phenomenon was NOT suck
related; the nipple looked fine coming out of the baby's mouth. I have
concluded that it is the temperature change, the coldness, that seems to
set it off, and this occurs so naturally when a wet nipple is exposed to
air! (you know, like getting out of a swimming pool, even when the air is
nice)  Yes, it can happen at other times, too, like when changing clothes
or having a car air conditioner blowing on the chest. So far, heat has
been the only soother I have seen, and even that does not resolve the
pain all of the time. Thanks for adding your insights. BTW- did the
rheumatologist mention what she does to help these mothers, if she does
see them? I am curious!
-Lisa

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Lisa A. Marasco, IBCLC                                /  [log in to unmask]
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant    /  [log in to unmask]

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