In the last trimester of your pregnancy it is a good idea to check for flat or inverted nipples. You can determine this by gently compressing your areola at the base of the nipple with your thumb and forefinger. A flat nipple is one that can not be compressed outward and also does not protrude or erect when stimulated. An inverted nipple retracts when the areola is compressed.

Most women with some degree of nipple inversion or flatness won't have a problem with breastfeeding because baby will be able to bring out the nipple when he is nursing.
A severe case of nipple inversion may make latching on and breastfeeding difficult but fortunately in most cases, inversion can be corrected by the measures described below.

TREATMENT FOR FLAT OR INVERTED NIPPLES.

* If you have flat or inverted nipples correct positioning and latch on of the baby is
  extremely important to prevent your nipples from becoming sore.

* You can wear breast shells in the last weeks of your pregnancy during the day, in
  gradually increasing lengths of time. After the baby is born you can wear them in between   feedings or just before feedings. Breast shells are two piece plastic or silicone   devices   worn inside your bra over the nipple and areola. Via gentle pressure on the areola, the   inverted nipple protrudes and the adhesions that pull them in are gently stretched.

Note:
* The breast shells should have multiple air holes to allow air circulation and to
  prevent moisture build up which can lead to nipple soreness.
* The milk that may leak in the breast shells should not be given to the baby.
* You may need a larger size bra when you wear breast shells to avoid too much
  pressure on the breast.

* Do the following exercise ( the so called Hoffman technique) several times a day
  to stretch the adhesions that cause the nipple inversion. (Avoid this exercise during your   pregnancy). Place a thumb on each side of the nipple base, press in firmly towards the   chest and pull the thumbs away from each other, place your thumbs every time on a
  different spot around the nipple.

* After birth you can use a breast pump for a few minutes prior to feeding to help draw out   the inverted nipple.

* If your nipples can be grasped you can try stimulating them before feedings by gently   rolling them between thumb and fore finger. You can also try applying some ice, wrapped
  in a wet cloth, on your nipple to help draw out the nipple prior to feeding.

Try to be patient while you try one or all of these measures to see which works best for you. Remember to take extra care with positioning and latch on of your baby. (See section on POSITIONING YOUR BABY AT THE BREAST).

For information regarding individual Breastfeeding Consultation by online lactation consultant please click here.