Vasospasm
A vasospasm is a sudden narrowing or constriction of blood vessels in the nipples, which can lead to significant discomfort during and after breastfeeding. While managing vasospasms can be challenging, many mothers find relief once they understand what’s happening and receive appropriate treatment. This guide offers valuable information and practical tips to help you navigate this experience, allowing you to enjoy breastfeeding your baby without pain.
- Nipple Compression: After nursing, your nipple may appear misshapen, creased, or compressed.
- Blanching or Color Changes: Your nipple may lighten or turn white, indicating reduced blood flow. As blood flow returns, it may turn pink or purple.
- Sharp, Shooting, or Burning Pain: Pain can occur during or after breastfeeding.
- Bilateral or Unilateral Pain: Symptoms can affect one or both nipples, especially when there’s a history of nipple damage or trauma.
- Cold Triggers: Exposure to cold can often trigger or worsen vasospasms.
Vasospasms are often triggered by compression, which can occur from the baby’s latch, an ill-fitting breast pump flange, or excessive pump suction. If your vasospasms are due to compression, addressing the underlying issue can significantly reduce both the pain and discomfort you’re experiencing.
- Shallow Latch: The most common contributing factor.
- Damaged Nipples: Sore, cracked, or damaged nipples, including those that are healing.
- Tongue-Tie: This condition can prevent the baby from moving their tongue properly, resulting in a poor latch.
- Clamping Down: Babies may bite or clamp down to slow a fast flow of milk.
- History of Raynaud’s Syndrome/Phenomenon: If you have a history of Raynaud’s or autoimmune disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis), you may be at higher risk for experiencing vasospasms.3
- Get Breastfeeding Help: Working with a Lactation Consultant can provide invaluable support in helping you overcome your breastfeeding challenges, including vasospasms.
- Ensure Proper Latch: A good latch can significantly reduce trauma and discomfort.
- Check Your Pump: Ensure you are using the correct-sized breast pump flange and appropriate, not excessive, suction.
- Avoid Cold: Stay warm and avoid exposing your breasts to cold environments, which can worsen symptoms.
- Warmth: Use warm compresses, a heating pad, or rice sock after breastfeeding or whenever you feel pain. This can help dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow.
- After-Feeding Care: After nursing, gently massage your nipples with olive or coconut oil to help increase blood flow.
- Pectoral Muscle Massage: Gently massaging and stretching the chest muscles below the collarbone and above the breasts can help maintain better blood flow.
- Avoid Caffeine: Caffeine and other vasoconstrictive substances such as nicotine, certain decongestants, beta blockers, and oral contraceptives (including estrogen), have been associated with vasospasm.
- Medications That May Help:
- Ibuprofen
- Dietary supplementation with calcium/magnesium
- Dietary supplementation with a vitamin B complex that includes B6 and niacin
- Dietary supplementation with fish oil supplements
- Low dose oral nifedipine – Reach out to your healthcare provider if more conservative treatments don’t help.
What If I Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:
- Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
- Lactation Q & A
- Pumping 101
To register for these classes, log into your portal or click here.
Want More Info?
For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:
References