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Breastfeeding/infected nipple? breastfeeding

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Expert: - 11/12/2007


Question
Hi, I removed my nipple piercing a couple of years ago, but can still squeeze pus from the nipple. It smells quite bad and I'm expecting my first child in June. Said nipple is also inverted which is perfect for harbouring bacteria. I try to keep it as clean and dry as possible and squeeze out the pus but it keeps building up.
I'm concerned about passing on an infection through breast milk to the baby.

Answer
Hello Susan - great that you have plenty of time to correct this before your first child comes :)  And on your next doctor visit, tell your doctor and they may prescribe an ointment for you to apply to ensure you don't get an infection...and this way you'll still have enough time to clear anything up before the breast feeding cycle begins.  All the best and good luck!

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Sue Ennis

Expertise

I am looking to support the segment of mothers that encounter engorgement issues that prevent them from continuing to breastfeeding, those that do not breastfeed or are ready to start weaning. As an aside, I wish to add that questions asked in terms of those not breastfeeding will not be given guilt for their choice. In many forums, including this one, there is currently no category developed for this "not breastfeeding" audience. I do believe that breastfeeding is best for both mother and child, however, I believe more strongly that there is a lack of support for the woman that for either personal or medical reasons cannot breastfeed. My strengths would be in answering questions related to stopping breast milk production comfortably either right after delivery or after nursing their children for some time, reducing breast engorgement pain and dealing with overactive lactation. Questions I would not try to answer are those tied to emotional feelings as I feel many times women that don't/can't breastfeed struggle with it...and that should be directed to the appropriate counseling channel.

Experience

I am the inventor and founder of LaMa Bra and for years have researched the human body functions, both in process and emotions/hormones to develop a bra to help mother slow or stop their breast milk.

Education/Credentials
I hold a BS in General Biology, a MS in Human Nutrition and an MBA in Marketing.
Also, am the the founder of LaMa Bra found at http://www.lamabra.com that has helped many women with engorgement while breastfeeding and through stages of weaning when ready to stop breastfeeding.

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