If you have a nipple piercing and become pregnant, you can be assured that you are still able to breastfeed, however there are numerous factors that need to be considered.

Interference

While it is possible to breastfeed with jewelry in place, it is usually better to remove the jewelry before each feed. If left in place it can interfere with your baby’s ability to feed as it may be irritating for the baby. The jewelry itself can pose a threat to the baby’s health as it is both a choking hazard and a breeding ground for bacteria.

To prevent any problems, wash your hands thoroughly with anti bacterial hand wash and remove the jewelry before feeding. Keep the jewelry in a clean safe container and always keep the piercing clean. This will prevent health problems caused by bacteria, and there is no chance that the baby can be harmed or irritated by the jewelry.

Leakage

Often women with nipple piercings will find that they actually have a better flow of milk, which makes breastfeeding easier. However sometimes you may find that breast milk will leak out of the piercing hole. This generally does not pose much of a problem though, as your nipples will often leak anyway. The solution to this is to make sure you always wear breast pads, even doubling them, to avoid embarrassment in public places.

Soreness

One thing that is not often told to any breastfeeding women is how sore your breasts and nipples will get when you start feeding. It does settle down, but the soreness can last for the first few weeks of breastfeeding. If you are constantly taking your jewelry in and out of the piercing, it can get extremely painful. This can be eased by buying a nipple cream and putting it on after every feed. This will help to keep your nipples free from cracks and dryness. Rubbing some breast milk on your nipples before and after a feed can also help.

Many nurses may not be encouraging about breastfeeding with nipple piercings, but try not to be discouraged. Although there are extra factors to consider when breastfeeding with nipple piercings, there is no reason why you cannot successfully breastfeed.