7 mo old, and suddenly nipple pain

[x95stocchier]

DS is 7.5 mo old, and I suddenly have really sore nipples.  I can't figure it out. They are not cracked, etc.  Feels like they are bruised or something.  Anyone have any idea what could be causing it?  I went through 3 mo of sore nipples in the beginning for latch on problems, but have not had any issues since then.  He's latched on properly, but now suddenly my nipples are so sore.  What can I do?  It hurts to nurse!

[Erin M]

Is he teething?  I know lots of moms have nipple pain when their LOs are teething b/c they adjust their latch slightly (so little that you might not be able to tell) but it's enough to cause pain to you.  If he is teething, he should adjust back once the teeth come through.  You could also try a different nursing position.

[Carter'sMama]

Are you pregnant?  Is your period due any time soon?  When I was still breastfeeding I would always get sore around that time of the month.  I must admit it wasn't fun but it didn't last very long!  To cope with the pain I would switch feeding positions frequently and use  alot of lanolin on the nipple area.

If it isn't pregnancy or AF then it could be teething or a small crack/cut that you can't really see?  Either way the lanolin should help!

HTH, let us know what happens!

[Samuel's mum]

Also worth considering something like thrush:

Do you have any of this:
 • pain in the nipples or breasts during or after feedings that may persist between feedings
• deep pink, red or purple discoloration of the nipple and areola
• a shiny glow on the areola
• dry, peeling nipples
• rash or white spots on the nipples

If so, speak to your doctor, check out the thrush thread.

Or an allergic/ dermatitis reaction - any change in washing powder, fabrics?

[x95stocchier]

Thanks so much for the quick replies!  I appreciate it (especially when in pain!) The teething thing could be it, though I don't see anything/feel anything, I guess his gums could still be bugging him.  I also think he's been doing a bit of comfort nursing lately (eating 20-390 min but breast is not drained) so maybe it is teeth, and he likes to suck..    I never thought he might have just made a slight adjustment.   I also wonder about thrush.  Never had it, so not too familiar.  I will check out the thread, thanks for the referral.

I haven;t had a period yet, so that's interesting to know.  After I read your post carters mom, I took a pg test, and it was negative.  So possible I'm expecting a period, or who knows.

Thank you all for giving me some things to consider.  Hopefully whatever it is, we'll resolve it soon!  I guess if I could handle the pain for the first 3 mo, I can handle it now, until it passes (if teething, period, etc), or we resolve it!