What are VasoSpasms?
VasoSpasms are a sudden constriction/narrowing of a blood vessel (in the nipple, in this case) that is extremely painful. It might occur a short time after nursing or in between nursings.
What causes VasoSpasms?
Vasospasm can be a response to pain or nipple trauma (damaged nipples or thrush).
What are signs of VasoSpasms?
- The nipple(s) turns white shortly after nursing (rather than coming out of baby’s mouth white and misformed).
- You may notice a white circle on the face of the nipple a few seconds to a few minutes after breastfeeding.
How can I treat it?
- Cold can make it worse. Apply heat to the breast especially right after nursing. For some women, it helps if they keep their whole body warm.
- Cover the nipple as soon as possible after baby comes off the breast. Some women it helps using cloth breast pads.
- Massage the nipple with olive oil or coconut when you have pain.
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine/smoking, diet pills, cold medications containing pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, beta blockers, and other vasoconstrictive drugs, as they can precipitate symptoms. Oral contraceptives containing estrogen have also been associated with vasospasm.
- Ibuprofen, calcium/magnesium. vitamin B complex that includes B6 and niacin, fish oil supplements and low dose oral nifedipine can be helpful for VasoSpasms.
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