Can I pump with my nipple piercings in?

Understanding Pumping with Nipple Piercings
Pumping, particularly in the context of breastfeeding or using a breast pump, raises questions for individuals with nipple piercings. It is essential to consider both safety and comfort when navigating this practice.
Safety Concerns
One of the primary concerns when using a breast pump with nipple piercings is the risk of infection. The presence of piercings introduces a potential entry point for bacteria, which can lead to complications, especially if the skin around the piercings is irritated or damaged during the pumping process. To mitigate this risk, it’s crucial to ensure that both the pump and the area around the piercings are thoroughly cleaned before use.
Comfort and Technique
While it is possible to pump with nipple piercings in place, comfort is paramount. Some individuals may find that the jewelry interferes with the suction of the pump or causes discomfort during the pumping session. In many cases, removing the jewelry temporarily before pumping can alleviate these issues. However, this should be done with caution, as newly pierced nipples can be sensitive and may close quickly if the jewelry is removed.
Recommendations for Pumping with Piercings
1. Consult a Professional: Before making any decisions, consider consulting with a lactation consultant or a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

2. Cleanliness is Key: Always ensure that the pumping equipment is sterile, and the area around the piercings is clean to prevent any risk of infection.
3. Monitor for Discomfort: Pay attention to how your body responds during pumping sessions. If you experience any discomfort or notice signs of irritation, it might be best to remove the piercings temporarily.
4. Consider Jewelry Material: If you have to keep your piercings in while pumping, consider using jewelry made from biocompatible materials like titanium or surgical steel, which are less likely to irritate the skin.
Conclusion
In summary, while you can pump with nipple piercings, careful consideration of safety, comfort, and hygiene is essential. By following best practices and listening to your body, you can navigate the challenges of pumping while maintaining your piercings. Always prioritize your health and consult with professionals to ensure the best outcomes for both you and your baby.

Can I keep my nipple piercings in while breastfeeding?

Your safest bet is to remove your jewelry while feeding. Although it’s not recommended, if you do choose to reinsert your nipple jewelry after each breastfeeding session, it’s extremely important to keep everything clean.

Can milk leak from a nipple piercing?

Milk is ejected by muscular contraction down the ducts and out of the pores in the nipple. This is called let down which is caused by the hormone oxytocin. When a mother has had her nipple pierced, the piercing may open in one of the ducts. In this case, milk will also come out of the piercing hole.

Can I pump with a cut on my nipple?

If breastfeeding is too painful
Hand express or pump to maintain your milk supply while your nipples heal. If the baby is not latching, pump 8 – 12 times daily until your milk stops flowing, generally around 15 – 20 minutes per breast or a total of 15 – 20 minutes if double pumping. Pumping should be comfortable.

How do I protect my nipples while pumping?

1-2 drops of vegetable cooking oil (olive, canola, corn etc.) may be used to lubricate the nipple just before pumping. After every pumping, apply modified lanolin cream or ointment, such as Lansinoh or Tender Care Lanolin. Apply cool moist cloths to your breasts after pumping.

What can you not do with nipple piercings?

Don’ts

• Don’t use any medications or substances that can thin your blood for the first weeks after the piercing.
• Don’t smoke.
• Don’t immerse your piercing in pools, spas, or baths.
• Don’t use bar soap or harsh cleaning fluids.
• Don’t touch the piercing with your hands.

Can you pump while using a nipple shield?

Do I need to use a breast pump? When using a nipple shield, it is important to pump after breastfeeding to make sure the breasts are well emptied. You will need to continue pumping after every feeding until your milk supply is well established and your baby is gaining weight.

How quickly do nipple piercings close?

Nipple piercings are one of the fastest piercing to close. When they’re new, they can close in minutes. Even after a few years, nipple piercings can close inside of a week without jewellery. For some, the hole can stay open for years on its own, although this is rare.

Can I breast pump with nipple piercings?

You would need to have the piercings well healed and take out the jewelry before pumping. The pump forms a vacuum over your nipple, so even if the jewelry fits in the pump, it’ll expand your nipple and the jewelry will be digging into the sides of the piercing.

What is the most painful piercing?

Unsurprisingly, genital piercings are widely considered to be the most painful. Regardless of what you choose to get done, you should expect significant immediate pain and a long healing time.

Why are nipple piercings risky?

The 3–6 months required for healing is longer than that of other pierced sites. Complications include infection; bleeding and hematoma; allergic reaction to the ornament; keloid formation; and the potential transmission of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).