nipple size

i was just wondering if anyone has had trouble breastfeeding due to nipple size (too small)?

[tiredbuthappy]

Most likely, your nipples won't be too small by the end of pregnancy :)
Some women do have flat or inverted nipples. This at times can make breastfeeding a little challenging, but most hospitals have nurses and LCs that can help you work with them. There are things you can do like gently pull the nipple out, or pump a little to draw the nipple out. There are shields you can wear prior to nursing to draw it out, and in extreme cases a nipple shield can be a more permanent solution.
Basically, don't stress too much about it now. You can read up a little on it so that you are armed with knowledge, and definitely ask questions after you deliver and if you have problems see the hospital's LC. The hospital I delivered also had all OB nurses trained by the LCs to support breastfeeding since they cannot be there all the time, and they often have a heavy caseload.
By the way, nipple size and breast size do not predict milk supply or likelihood of breastfeeding success. Congrats on your pregnancy and feel free to ask any questions you may have!

[30something13]

tired but happy is right and too small usually do not have trouble. I know woman wo have large nipples, and the more babies you nurse they can get bigger or if you pump it makes them bigger! That can be a problem with baby getting enough areola in the mouth and ahving a good latch.

Niple shields can be useful in that case but baby does not get all the milk out of the breast and continued use can casue mastitis. Talk to a lactation counsultant before baby is born and your worries will be less:) It will work! My SIL has  inverted nipples and she nursed, used a shield at first but then got rid if it after a couple weeks, she used it every other feed so babd did not get used to it and it still helped pull the nipple out.

[marissa143]

i have flatter nipples. the lactation consultant told me they werent flat nipples but in the flatter side. i found it a little more painful to breastfeed in the beginning. but we managed. it was hard again when she got teeth because since the nipples are smaller they rub on her teeth. but ive never had to supplement and she is now 18 months and i'm still nursing her. you can do it no matter what your breasts/nipples are like. not going to lie....it is really challenging in the beginning but it does get better. honestly it took me about 2-3 months before i felt comfortable with it. but i am sooo happy i did. its the best thing in the whole world! good luck!

[need_answers_from_someone]

try getting a nipple shield.  It kind of forces the nipple erect by the baby sucking.  I use them to save my nipples from cracking and bleeding.  I have smaller flatter nipples and they work really well for me.  No pain or dry nipples either.