Why is my areola swollen after breastfeeding?

Women who are breastfeeding must take good care of their breasts and nipples. They need to clean their nipples in time after each feeding, otherwise it will cause nipple inflammation and affect the baby's health. Many women experience red and swollen nipples during breastfeeding. In fact, this is generally normal and there is no need to worry too much. The following are the reasons for swollen areola during breastfeeding.

Do nipple shields work?

A nipple shield is a soft cover made of medical silicone that can cover the mother's nipple and areola. The baby sucks milk through this cover. It is generally sold in baby products stores. However, the nipple shield must be as thin as possible and it is best to use it only for a few days. Although nipple shields can be used to relieve mothers' pain, be careful not to use them for long periods of time. Another use of the protective cover is that when the nipple is bitten by the baby, wearing a bra over it can relieve the pain. Therefore, to a certain extent, nipple shields are still useful. Its specific uses are:

1. Mothers with flat or inverted nipples can choose to use a nipple shield to let the baby suck milk first. When the nipple is protruding, the nipple shield can be removed to let the baby suck directly. This will not waste the immune factors contained in the mother's colostrum, and can also make the nipple shield more durable.

2. For babies who suck breast milk directly, they have a certain resistance to bottles and nipples. At this time, you can also use nipple shields to help the baby transition through the weaning period.

How are nipple shields used?

First, the mother's nipples and areola should be cleaned with a sanitary tampons. Next, drop a little breast milk into the nipple shield. Fit the nipple shield over your nipple. Press the surrounding areas with your hands and let the baby suck. In this way, the baby will drink the milk. Once the baby sucks, the protective shield will fit closely with the breast and can be used normally. . Be careful to place the nipple shield on your breast in a way that does not touch the nipple, and then press around it with your fingers. However, if the mother does not have enough milk, she may not be able to use the protective shield. Fill it with milk before use, and be careful not to block the vent with your fingers.

Do nipple shields work for small nipples?

In fact, nipple shields are still useful to a certain extent for mothers with short nipples. Mothers with small nipples need to use nipple shields to help them get through the various confusing periods of breastfeeding caused by small nipples. Because the nipple shield is a cover made of a medical silicone material that can cover the mother's nipple and areola, and is a bit like the shape of a pacifier. Its function is of course to help mothers with short nipples breastfeed, while also making it easier for babies to suck milk. Generally speaking, mothers lean their bodies forward slightly and then drip milk into the tip of the nipple of the nipple shield. In this way, the baby will be able to drink the milk easily. Therefore, mothers with short nipples do need a nipple shield that suits them to help them through the period of breastfeeding their babies.