Expert: Tammy Petersen - 3/1/2007

Question
I really wanted to try to breastfeed with my second baby, but I think I may have ran into a problem. I had my nipples pierced long before I got pregnant. So of course knowing I could not have them in order to breastfeed I took them out. I though nothing of it when the milk stopped coming. knowing that it comes and goes. But my husband made a point that made since, scar tissue. Is it possible that the scar tissue is blocking my milk? And is there anything I can do about it?

Answer
Nichole,

I am not really sure if this is the case. It absolutely can cause a problem. There can be some scar tissue or because of the piercing, the milk duct may have been interrupted, stopping the flow of milk to the outside.

I am not clear on wether or not you actually have a new baby and are having problems or if you are just getting ready.

I would suggest if the later is the case, once your baby is born, try. If the milk is not coming out, it won't be a long time before you know there is a problem. Having had the piercings should not effect your ability to make milk. It may all be the about getting out of the breast.

Hope this helps.

Tammy
Is there a breast specialist in your area that you can pose the question to? Even so, I think it will be trial and error.