Nipples come in different colors, shapes and sizes - flat, inverted, or protruding. I always had protruding nipples, and breastfeeding caused them to elongate.
What Caused My Elongated Nipples?
While breastfeeding, the nipple is pulled from the front pallet (roof of the mouth) to the back pallet.
This video is a great depiction of what’s happening.
I’ve been breastfeeding for 7 years, so all that movement led to extremely stretched nipples. Here are some of my solutions...
1. Very Visible Through Clothing
Even if I wear a sweatshirt (or any other thick fabric), my nipples can be seen.
Solution: dark tops with shelf bras are a super practical form of minimalistic clothing during your lactating years.
2. They Get Caught On Things
Because my children are always under me, sometimes my nipple gets caught under them. It’s kind of hard to explain. I equate it to having long hair and having it get caught on things.
Solution: bralettes like this one are thin, stretchy and provide light support. They also help keep your girls comfortably protected.
3. They Brush Up On Things
My nipples are super sensitive and brush up on things which are especially painful during pregnancy.
Solution: avoid being topless, hugs, your husband and children -- just joking. It is important to be open with your loved ones about how sensitive your body is.
4. They Point In Different Directions, Including Downward
Because my nipples protrude and have free range, they often seem like they are all over the place.
Solution: if you notice your girls wandering off, just lift and reposition them as needed.
Are Elongated Nipples Permanent?
I don’t think so, but I’ll keep you updated.
Since I’ve been breastfeeding consecutively for years, my nipples have not had a break from the demands of nursing, so they have remained in a somewhat elongated state.
However, I have asked other breastfeeding moms, who said their breasts returned to normal after weaning their children.
Are Your Nipples Unattractive?
I don’t think so - I’m still proud of them, because they look pretty healthy to me. Plus, there are many wombmen who pay thousands of dollars on cosmetic surgery trying to achieve the protruding nipple that naturally comes from nursing.
Do you have elongated nipples? What changes have you noticed on your breastfeeding journey? What solutions would you suggest to nipple problems? Need to schedule a one-on-one? Use code: HEART2HEART.
Until next time...
Love The Journey,
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