Breastfeeding with flat or inverted nipples

For some people they are aware they have flat or inverted nipples prior to pregnancy, for others, it may come as a surprise in the initial postpartum period. Either way one of the biggest stresses they have is whether breastfeeding will be possible. The good news is, this alone, does not automatically mean you can’t breastfeed. Occasionally it may cause some concerns initially and make initially learning to latch harder, but with the right support and tools in place many breastfeeding parents go on to breastfeed successfully.  

The most reassuring aspect of this is, it's called breastfeeding, not nipple feeding for a reason. When your baby latches deeply, they take a good mouthful of breast tissue into their mouth. Your nipple is simply one part of that process. A good latch relies far more on how much breast your baby takes into their mouth than how much your nipple sticks out. This is why some babies latch beautifully to flat or inverted nipples from their very first feed, others just need a little more help while they're learning. 

What are flat or inverted nipples? 

Flat nipples:  don't protrude very much from the areola, even when stimulated. 
Inverted nipples: sit below the surface and pull inward rather than pointing outwards. Some only invert occasionally, while others are inverted all of the time.  
Both are completely normal variations in anatomy. 

Do flat or inverted nipples affect breastfeeding? 

Sometimes, but not always. For some babies, they latch without issue from the very beginning whilst others can find it a little harder to latch, especially in those first few days when they're still learning how to breastfeed and your milk is changing from colostrum to mature milk. 

You might notice your baby: 

How can an IBCLC help you? 
Every breastfeeding journey is different, which is why there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Sometimes all that's needed is a small adjustment to positioning or attachment. 

Techniques that may be encouraged:  

What is a nipple shield?  
A nipple shield is a thin silicone cover that goes over the nipple to help give the baby more shape to latch onto. They often get a bad reputation, but like any breastfeeding tool, it's all about using them in the right situation. For some families, a nipple shield can make the difference between a baby being unable to latch and breastfeeding comfortably. The important part is making sure your baby is removing milk well, your milk supply is protected, and there's ongoing support to review whether the shield is still needed. 

Get support early: 
One of the biggest differences I see is when families get support early. As an IBCLC, I'm not just looking at your nipples. I'm looking at the whole picture, your baby's latch, how they're transferring milk, your milk supply, your baby's oral function, your comfort, and your feeding goals. Sometimes only a few small changes make all the difference, and sometimes all you need is reassurance that what you're experiencing is normal. Whatever your situation, you don't have to navigate it on your own. With good positioning, patience, and the right support when you need it, many parents with flat or inverted nipples go on to have positive, successful breastfeeding journeys.