Information for breastfeeding families
Do I Have Flat or Inverted Nipples?
Flat or inverted nipples can sometimes be problems when starting to breastfeed. It is a good idea
to know your nipple shape before starting to breastfeed. Compare yourself to these examples.
Gently squeeze at the edge of the areola to see how your nipples react. There are three basic
shapes.
Normal Nipples
These normally shaped nipples are easy for most babies to latch-on to. The nipple is erect at
rest or becomes erect when it is stimulated or the mother is chilled. If you gently squeeze at
the edge of this nipple it remains everted.
Flat nipples
These nipples can be difficult for an infant
to attach to. They are flat and remains flat
even when stimulated.
Occasionally lactation consultants
recommend the use of breast shells prior
to the baby’s birth. Regularly gently rolling
and pulling the nipple it may help it
become more erect. Do not wear breast
shells or pull your nipples if you are at risk
for preterm delivery.
The use of a breast pump just before
feedings will help the nipples become
more erect.
Check with your lactation consultant or
knowledgeable health care provider to
determine solutions that will work best
for your situation.
Inverted Nipples
These nipples actually retract at rest or when
stimulated. Try gently squeezing at the edge of the
areola. Usually these nipples remain inverted.
Occasionally lactation consultants recommend the
use of breast shells prior to the baby’s birth.
They may suggest a breast pump just before feeding
the baby to pull these nipples out for the baby.
Check with your lactation consultant or
knowledgeable health care provider to determine
which solution will be best for your situation.
Provided for you by Lactation Education Resources.
Feel free to duplicate.
Please be aware that the information provided is intended solely for general educational and informational
purposes only. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek
the advice of your physician for any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard
professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have received in this program.
