How to Breastfeed with Flat Nipples: 9 Tips to Get Your Newborn To Latch

If you have flat or inverted nipples, you may be concerned about your ability to breastfeed and face some challenges.

Keep reading to learn how to breastfeed with flat nipples and how to make your baby latch to any nipple form or breast size.

How to tell if you have flat or inverted nipples

Before we dive into the tips, let’s first understand the difference between flat and inverted nipples.

Flat nipples are nipples that don’t protrude much from the areola, while inverted nipples are nipples that retract inward.

You may be able to tell if you have flat or inverted nipples by observing how your nipples look when they are not stimulated.

So, can you breastfeed with flat nipples?

The answer is YES! While breastfeeding with flat nipples may present some challenges, it is entirely possible to breastfeed your baby. It may just require a little extra effort.

Remember, babies are incredibly adaptable. They can latch onto various shapes and sizes of nipples, including flat ones. Their instinct to breastfeed is strong, and they are often able to latch onto the breast in a way that suits their unique needs. You may be surprised at how well your baby can adjust to your specific nipple shape.

And if not? Then, read on to learn the best tips on breastfeeding with flat nipples.

Is it hard to breastfeed with flat nipples?

Well, from my own experience, yes, it is. It requires a lot of testing, dedication, persistence, and a strong desire to cope with the issue. But that was my individual experience with my first child. With the second baby, it was much easier.

I’ve shared my story how I struggled to breastfeed with flat nipples in the blog post “Why is breastfeeding so hard?”.

Preparing inverted or flat nipples during pregnancy

During pregnancy, it can be helpful to start preparing your nipples for breastfeeding. One way to do this is by gently massaging and stimulating your nipples. This can help to draw out your nipples and make it easier for your baby to latch on.

Learn more on how to prepare for breastfeeding and, surprisingly, what our primate cousins can teach us.

Helping your baby latch on to flat or inverted nipples

Getting your baby to latch onto flat or inverted nipples can sometimes be a bit trickier than with protruding nipples. It may take some patience and practice, but there are techniques that can help.

What are some tips to help with breastfeeding with flat or inverted nipples?

Here are 9 tips to make breastfeeding with flat or inverted nipples more successful.

1. Using a nipple shield to help the baby latch on

A nipple shield is a thin, silicone device that can be placed over the nipple to help your baby latch on. It can provide a larger surface area for your baby to latch onto and can help with creating a better seal.

As for me, I’m extremely thankful to Medela for their nipple shields because that was how I coped with my flat nipple issue when trying to breastfeed my newborn daughter. After so many unsuccessful attempts to latch her, on the fifth day of her life, we finally get there with those magic silicon devices.

How to use nipple shields

To use a nipple shield, simply place it over your nipple before latching your baby on. Make sure that it is securely attached and that your baby is able to latch on properly.

Cleaning the nipple shield

After each use, make sure to clean the nipple shield thoroughly using warm water and mild soap. Rinse it well and allow it to air dry before using it again.

Weaning from the nipple shield

As your baby becomes more skilled at latching on, you may find that you no longer need to use a nipple shield. To wean from the nipple shield, try offering your breast without it and see if your baby is able to latch on successfully.

With my first baby, I stopped using nipple shields in her 4th month and then successfully breastfed till her 1 year and 2 months in a totally natural way.

2. Stimulate the nipple

Before each feeding, gently stimulate your nipples to draw them out. You can do this by gently rolling them between your fingers or using a warm compress. This can help to make your nipples more prominent and easier for your baby to latch onto.

How do you stimulate flat nipples?

There are a few ways to stimulate nipples. 

One effective technique is gentle massage. Use your fingertips to rub and roll your nipples in a circular motion gently. This can help increase blood flow and sensitivity, potentially leading to a more pronounced nipple shape. 

Another method is warm compresses. Applying a warm towel or heating pad to your breasts before breastfeeding can encourage nipple erection.

What had worked for me with my second kid was to stimulate my nipples with a rough towel right before I gave my breast to my newborn son to suck.

It may take some time and practice to see results, but with dedication, you can overcome the challenge of flat or inverted nipples.

3. When your milk comes in, massage your breasts

When your milk supply increases after birth, your breasts may become engorged. This can make it more difficult for your baby to latch onto flat or inverted nipples. To help relieve engorgement and make feeding easier, gently massage your breasts before each feeding to help stimulate milk flow.

4. Use a breast pump

Using a breast pump (I had Medela Swing, and I was totally happy with it) before breastfeeding can help stimulate your nipples and draw them out. This can make it easier for your baby to latch on and can also help to increase your milk supply. You can also impact your milk production with food and beverages, see what foods help to produce breast milk.

Is it hard to pump with flat nipples?

Actually, the breast pump is totally indifferent to the form of your nipples. While your baby is probably not. 🙂

It is absolutely possible to pump with flat nipples. Firstly, consider using a breast pump that has different suction levels to find the one that works best for you. Additionally, using a warm compress or taking a warm shower before pumping can help stimulate the nipple and make it easier to latch onto the pump.

Don’t forget to use a correctly sized breast shield that fits snugly around your nipple for optimal suction.

5. Lie on your side

When breastfeeding with flat or inverted nipples, lying on your side can be a helpful position. This allows gravity to assist your baby in latching on and can make it easier for them to get a good latch.

6. Hold your breast

When breastfeeding with flat or inverted nipples, it can be helpful to use different holding techniques to help your baby latch on. Two common techniques are the C-hold and the V-hold.

C-hold

For the C-hold, make a C-shape with your hand and place your thumb on top of your breast, with your fingers underneath. Use your hand to gently compress the breast and guide your baby’s mouth to your nipple.

V-hold

For the V-hold, place your index and middle fingers on either side of your nipple, with your thumb on top. Use your fingers to gently compress the breast and guide your baby’s mouth to your nipple.

7. Breastfeed often

Frequent breastfeeding can help to stimulate your milk supply and keep your baby well-fed. Aim to breastfeed at least every two to three hours or whenever your baby shows signs of hunger.

8. Get support

If you’re having difficulties breastfeeding with flat or inverted nipples, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. A lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist can provide professional assistance and teach you how to breastfeed with flat nipples personally.

9. Check the diaper

One way to tell if your baby is getting enough milk is by checking their diaper. A well-fed baby should have at least six wet diapers a day and several bowel movements.

Also, it’s important to track how the baby gains weight.

For example, with my daughter, I had a good number of wet diapers daily, but she wasn’t gaining weight, so I started to pump after feeding sessions both to increase my breast milk supply and to feed her with extra calories.

If you keep having problems and yelling How to Breastfeed With Flat Nipples

If you’re still having difficulties breastfeeding with flat or inverted nipples, it’s important not to get discouraged. Keep reaching out for support and try different techniques until you find what works best for you and your baby.

Brands and products that will help you breastfeed with flat nipples

There are several brands and products available that can assist with breastfeeding with flat nipples. Some popular options include breast pumps and other suction devices that can help draw out your nipples and create a better latch.

Breast pumps

A breast pump can be a useful tool for stimulating your nipples and increasing your milk supply. The one that worked best for me was Medela Swing.

One of the mistakes I made with my first baby was that I wasn’t stimulating my breasts with a breast pump when my newborn daughter wasn’t latching to my flat nipples. So, this is my #1 recommended device for first-time moms and pregnant women with flat nipples. Remember, you SHOULD stimulate your breasts the first days after birth, whether with a successfully latching baby or a breast pump (if you’re in the process of getting a latch to your flat nipples).

Both manual and electric options work well for that purpose. Let’s check out a few products.

haakaa Manual Breast Pump

If you prefer more traditional manual pumping devices to such one-piece innovative solutions as Haakaa, check out Medela’s manual breast pump. It’s a classic device you definitely won’t regret buying.

Another great option is a portable electric breast pump like Momcozy.

Momcozy Breast Pump Hands Free M5

Other suction devices

In addition to breast pumps, there are other suction devices specifically designed to help with flat or inverted nipples. These devices work by creating gentle suction to draw out the nipple and make it easier for your baby to latch on. I’ve tried the Pigeon company nipple everter pretty same as Lansinoh LatchAssist.

Rolevin Electric Nipple Corrector for Flat or Inverted Nipples

Lansinoh LatchAssist Nipple Everter for Breastfeeding

FAQ

How can I reduce my risk of flat or inverted nipples?

While the shape and size of your nipples are largely determined by genetics, there are a few things you can do to potentially reduce your risk of having flat or inverted nipples. One suggestion is to gently massage your nipples during pregnancy to help encourage them to protrude.

Is it common to have flat or inverted nipples?

Yes, it is common for women to have flat or inverted nipples. It is important to remember that the ability to breastfeed is not solely determined by the shape of your nipples.

Can I breastfeed if I have inverted nipples?

Yes, you can breastfeed if you have inverted nipples. While it may be more challenging initially, there are techniques and tools available, such as nipple shields and breast shells, that can help your baby get a good latch and stimulate milk flow.

Do inverted nipples ever go away?

In some cases, inverted nipples can become more prominent over time, especially during breastfeeding. However, inverted nipples can vary in severity and, in some cases, may not fully protrude even with breastfeeding. If you are concerned about your nipples, it’s always a good idea to consult with a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist for personalized advice.

As for me, my flat nipples were the same after I breastfed my first baby for about a year. And they are the same flat after my second breastfeeding endeavor with my second baby. But something has definitely changed. Babies are different. My son was definitely more hardworking in terms of sucking than my daughter. 🙂

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