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Indian Pediatr 2011;48:
651-652 |
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Retracted Nipple- Innovative Solutions |
Ritesh Singh
Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine,
College of Medicine and J N M Hospital,
Kalyani, West Bengal, India.
Email: [email protected]
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A recent article in Indian Pediatrics was an interesting read [1].
The method suggested by the authors for treatment of retracted nipple,
though not innovative, but is certainly worth noting. The age old
techniques of using a syringe to protract the nipple may not work in all
circumstances. Another recent article suggests tying a latex rubber band
around the base of the nipple during feeding, with the help of a syringe
applicator, to make it prominent [2]. Mothers could achieve latching at
the breast with good attachment within one month. The other bedside
technique for helping mothers with retracted nipple is "Make" a nipple. By
holding the breast well back on the areola using index finger on the lower
side and thumb on the upper side, more breast tissue can be put into
baby’s mouth. Mother needs to press in with thumb and fingers while at the
same time pushing back towards her chest wall. This elongates and narrows
the areola, which enables baby to latch on more easily. Whatever method a
health worker suggests for the treatment of inverted nipple, the most
important message which needs to be given to the lactating mother is
correct latching technique. If a mother properly holds the baby to her
breast, half the battle is won. At the same, time instructing the mother
to start lactating soon after birth is of paramount importance. With flat
or inverted nipples, it is particularly important to put baby to mother’s
breast as soon after the birth as possible.
References
1. Rathi S, Mandliya J. A Novel approach to correct
retracted nipples. Indian Pediatr. 2011;48:245.
2. Chakrabarti K, Basu S. Management of Flat or
Inverted Nipples with Simple Rubber Bands. Breastfeeding Medicine. 2011
Jan. 8 (E-pub ahead of print).
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