Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » How to regain sensation in nipples after breastfeeding naturally?

How to regain sensation in nipples after breastfeeding naturally?

Regaining Nipple Sensation After Breastfeeding: A Natural Approach
After the journey of breastfeeding, many women experience changes in nipple sensation, which can be disconcerting. While the body undergoes significant transformations during and after this period, there are natural methods to help restore sensitivity and comfort in the nipples.
Understanding the Changes
Breastfeeding can lead to various physical changes, including alterations in nipple sensitivity. Factors such as hormonal fluctuations, skin elasticity, and the physical demands of nursing can contribute to this phenomenon. As the body adjusts post-breastfeeding, some women may find that their nipples feel less sensitive or even numb. This is often temporary, but understanding how to encourage recovery can be beneficial.
Natural Remedies for Sensation Restoration
1. Moisturization and Skin Care: Keeping the skin around the nipples well-hydrated is crucial. Using a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer can help combat dryness and improve skin elasticity. This is particularly important as skin tends to become thinner and drier with age. Regular application of natural oils, such as coconut or almond oil, can also promote healing and sensitivity.
2. Gentle Stimulation: Engaging in gentle massage of the breast and nipple area can stimulate blood flow and nerve endings. This can be done using circular motions with your fingertips, which may help in regaining sensation over time. It’s essential to be gentle to avoid discomfort, especially if the skin is still sensitive post-breastfeeding.
3. Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses can help soothe any lingering discomfort and may promote circulation. This method can be particularly effective if there is any swelling or sensitivity in the area. The cold can also invigorate the nerve endings, potentially aiding in sensation recovery.
4. Nutritional Support: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall skin health. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and flaxseeds, can improve skin elasticity and health. Additionally, staying hydrated is vital for maintaining skin moisture and elasticity.
5. Patience and Time: It’s important to remember that the body needs time to heal and adjust after breastfeeding. Many women find that their sensitivity gradually returns over several months. Keeping a positive mindset and allowing your body the necessary time to recover can be beneficial.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many women experience a natural return of sensation, persistent numbness or discomfort should not be overlooked. If there are concerns about significant changes in breast or nipple health, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable. They can provide guidance tailored to individual circumstances and rule out any underlying issues.
In conclusion, regaining sensation in the nipples after breastfeeding is a process that can be supported through natural methods. By focusing on skin care, gentle stimulation, and overall health, many women can encourage a return to normalcy in their bodies post-breastfeeding.

How do you rehydrate nipples?

2-3 times per day, do a saline soak to your nipples (1⁄2 tsp to 1 cup warm water) for 3-5 min. this will help cleanse, soothe, hydrate, and heal your nipples. Continue these soaks for about 3-5 days. (please do not soak more than 5 min at a time as it can overhydrate and end up delaying healing) 2.

Is it safe to put vaseline on your nipples?

We recommend a non-irritating moisturizer to help your nipples heal. After each feed / pumping, apply Petrolatum (Vaseline, Aquaphor or generic equivalent) or Zinc Oxide to both nipples and wear a cotton bra. If the ointment is sticking to your clothes, you may want to cover it with gauze.

How can I restore my nipples feeling?

Nerve stimulation therapies
Techniques like electrical nerve stimulation can help awaken and encourage nerve repair, potentially improving nipple sensation over time.

Is it OK to pump to let nipples heal?

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.

What happens to your boobs if you don’t breastfeed?

You may have some milk leak from your breasts, and your breasts may feel sore and swollen. This is called engorgement. It usually gets better after several days. Over time, your body will stop making milk if you don’t breastfeed or pump.

How to make your nipples go back to normal after breastfeeding?

Although some women find that their nipples after breastfeeding return to their pre-pregnancy size and shape, this is not the case for everyone. For women whose nipple after breastfeeding and pregnancy remain enlarged, Nipple Reduction is a straightforward procedure which can be performed under local anaesthetic.

How to make nipples sensitive again?

  • It can be made sensitive by frequent gently sucking.
  • Gently rolling, soft pinching, and playing with nipples.
  • Give olive oil massage daily.
  • All above acts may make breast nipples sensitive for exciiment touch and she will enjoy.

How do you fix damaged nipples from breastfeeding?

How Can I Treat Cracked Nipples?

  1. Apply Freshly Expressed Breast Milk. Smoothing freshly expressed breast milk onto cracked nipples may help them heal by offering antibacterial protection.
  2. Warm Compress.
  3. Salt Water Rinse.
  4. Apply Medical Grade Lanolin Ointment.
  5. Change Nursing Pads Frequently.

How much extra do breasts weigh when breastfeeding?

Everybody knows that during the early stages of pregnancy and post birth most women will experience an increase in breast size. But did you know that the weight of a breastfeeding boob is much heavier than a non-breastfeeding boob of the same size? In fact a lactating breast can be up to 35% heavier!

Why are my nipples suddenly not sensitive?

As we age, the nipples may become less sensitive to stimulation which is normal with changing hormone levels. A sudden change in sensitivity may warrant a visit to your physician if you are not pregnant or breast feeding and have no other reason such as a new medication to have a change in your hormones.

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.

Leave a Comment