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Can nipple piercings interfere with breast feeding?

Understanding the Impact of Nipple Piercings on Breastfeeding
As more individuals embrace body art, the question of whether nipple piercings interfere with breastfeeding has gained attention. For new mothers or those considering a nipple piercing, understanding the implications for lactation is crucial.
Breastfeeding with Nipple Piercings: The Basics
The consensus among experts is that most women can breastfeed successfully with nipple piercings. Human nipples have multiple openings (typically 8-12), and a well-healed piercing is unlikely to block all of them, allowing for normal milk flow. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Potential Risks and Complications
While many women can breastfeed without issues, there are potential risks associated with nipple piercings. One significant concern is the formation of scar tissue, which can occur around the piercing site. This scar tissue may lead to blocked milk ducts, potentially reducing milk supply and causing discomfort. Additionally, if jewelry is left in during breastfeeding, it can pose a choking hazard for the baby or lead to poor latching, which can complicate the breastfeeding process.
Safety Considerations
For mothers with nipple piercings, it is advisable to remove jewelry during breastfeeding. This practice not only minimizes risks for the infant but also helps maintain the integrity of the piercing. Keeping the area clean and dry is essential to prevent infections, which can be a concern with any body piercing.
Expert Opinions
Lactation specialists emphasize that while nipple piercings do not inherently prevent breastfeeding, they can introduce complications that require careful management. For instance, some mothers report issues such as milk leakage or difficulties with latching, which may be exacerbated by the presence of jewelry. Therefore, consulting with a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance and strategies for successful breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, while nipple piercings do not universally interfere with breastfeeding, they come with potential risks that should not be overlooked. Mothers should weigh these risks against their personal choices regarding body art and seek professional advice to navigate their unique situations effectively. With proper care and attention, many women can enjoy both their piercings and the breastfeeding experience.

Can I pump with my nipple piercings in?

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.

Does scar tissue from a nipple piercing affect breastfeeding?

Essentially, there is a chance that scar tissue from a pierced nipple can inhibit or block the free flow of milk [1]. It won’t completely cut off the supply but will cause an interesting “spray” of your milk flow.

Do I have to take out my nipple piercings when pregnant?

Your breasts will become more tender during your pregnancy, but you don’t need to remove jewellery from your nipples unless you want to. However, the picture’s different if you want to breastfeed once you’re a parent. Your baby may struggle to latch on well if you keep your piercings in (APP nd, LLLI nd, UK APP nd).

Can nipple piercings cause breast issues?

A pierced nipple is more likely to form an abscess. That’s a painful, pus-filled lump under the nipple or in your breast. You’ll need to see the doctor for treatment.

When should I remove my nipple piercing when pregnant?

Women should avoid piercing the belly and nipples during pregnancy. Comfort becomes the bottom line! If you already have a piercing that has completely healed and it feels comfortable, there is not a medical reason to take out your jewelry.

Can breast milk leak from nipple piercing?

Will milk leak from the holes? Some mums see milk leaking from the piercing holes when their milk begins to flow at the start of each feed (known as the let-down reflex). You probably won’t notice this when you breastfeed, because your baby’s mouth will cover the holes.

Can a nipple piercing affect breastfeeding?

Nipple piercings usually won’t have a direct impact on your ability to produce milk because the glandular tissues responsible for milk production sit behind your nipple. But in some cases, a nipple piercing can damage or clog one of about nine milk ducts that allow milk to be expressed from your breast.

Are there any negative effects of nipple piercings?

While nipple piercing seems pretty harmless, it does carry health risks that you should be aware of. The most common are infections and bleeding, which usually occur shortly after getting a piercing but can happen even years later. Scars, tears, and nerve damage are also possible.

Can a nipple piercing give you mastitis?

Reports of mastitis after nipple piercing have increased in the past decade. Most cases involve Staphylococcus aureus; cases of Mycobacterium infection have been reported. Rapidly growing mycobacteria are known to infect surgical and traumatic wounds.

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.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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