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Nipple Vasospasm: Why breastfeeding might be hurting and what you can do about it



Nipple pain during or after breastfeeding can stop you in your tracks. It’s sharp. It’s burning. Sometimes it lingers for hours. And in many cases, it’s a sign of something called nipple vasospasm — a condition that affects blood flow to the nipple, often triggered by cold, compression, or stress on the tissue.

If you’ve noticed your nipples turning white, purple, or red after feeding or pumping — especially alongside throbbing or stinging pain — you’re not imagining it. And you don’t have to just put up with it, either.

Let’s break down what nipple vasospasm actually is, why it happens, and how to get real relief.


 

What is nipple vasospasm?

Nipple vasospasm is when the small blood vessels in the nipple spasm — that is, they constrict suddenly and reduce blood flow. This can happen in response to cold temperatures, stress, or pressure on the nipple (like a shallow latch). As circulation is cut off and then restored, the nipple may change colour — often turning white, then blue or purple, and finally red as blood flow returns.

The pain can range from mild and annoying to intense and stabbing. It often continues after feeding or pumping and may feel worse in cold environments or with sudden temperature changes.

This condition is sometimes linked to Raynaud’s phenomenon, a circulatory disorder that affects the hands, feet, and, in some cases, the nipples.


 

Common symptoms of nipple vasospasm

You may be experiencing vasospasm if you notice:

  • A burning, stabbing, or throbbing sensation in the nipple

  • Pain that continues after a breastfeed or pump session

  • Nipple blanching (turning white), followed by colour changes to blue, purple or red

  • Pain that’s triggered or worsened by cold air, wind, or water

  • Tingling or “pins and needles” in the nipple

  • One nipple affected more than the other (though both can be involved)

This kind of nipple pain is often misdiagnosed as thrush or general latch pain — but the key clues are the colour changes and the timing of the pain, often between feeds.


 

What causes nipple vasospasm?

There’s no single cause, but some of the most common triggers include:

  • A shallow or incorrect latch, which puts pressure on the nipple

  • Baby-related issues such as tongue-tie or a strong suck

  • Nipple damage, cracks or trauma from feeding

  • Cold exposure, even brief (like a breeze on damp breast pads)

  • Wearing tight bras or restrictive clothing

  • Low levels of magnesium or vitamin B6

  • A personal or family history of Raynaud’s

If you’re in the early days of breastfeeding or you’re pumping regularly, your nipples are already under a fair bit of stress — so if blood flow becomes restricted, vasospasm can kick in quickly.


 

How to treat nipple vasospasm

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but here’s what we know works — and why.


1. Keep your nipples warm

Heat is your best friend. Since cold is the biggest trigger, protecting your nipples from any chill can help reduce vasospasm episodes.

Try:

  • Applying a warm compress after each feed

  • Using breast warmers or soft wool breast pads between feeds

  • Avoiding sudden exposure to cold (like walking outside without a bra or using cold gel packs too often)

Warmth encourages blood flow and keeps the tiny vessels relaxed.


2. Check the latch

If your baby isn’t latching deeply, your nipple may be compressed between the tongue and hard palate — cutting off circulation and increasing vasospasm risk.

Working with a lactation consultant can help:

  • Improve baby’s latch and positioning

  • Identify possible tongue-tie or oral restrictions

  • Reduce nipple trauma and pain at the source


3. Support your nutrient levels

Some nutrients are known to support healthy blood flow and nerve function. In particular:

  • Magnesium helps relax blood vessels and muscles

  • Vitamin B6 may reduce nerve-related pain and support vascular health

  • Iron, zinc, and calcium all play a role in tissue repair and hormone function during breastfeeding

At milc., our lactation support products are designed to help mums restore, replenish, and nourish. Our Nourish shakes and Energise greens are both rich in key nutrients that support breastfeeding, energy levels, and recovery — including magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, and traditional galactagogues like fenugreek, blessed thistle, and nettles.






4. Protect your nipples between feeds

Simple daily habits make a big difference:

  • Keep your nipples dry with breathable breast pads

  • Avoid tight bras or compression that flattens the nipple

  • Gently massage the areola after feeding to encourage circulation

  • Use nipple balms that keep the skin soft and protected


5. Speak to Your Healthcare Provider

If symptoms are severe or ongoing, talk to your GP or lactation consultant.

You don’t need to push through pain alone. Getting early support can help you keep breastfeeding comfortably.


 

Nipple vasospasm can be confronting — especially when it strikes without warning. But with the right support, nutrition, and tools, it can absolutely be managed.

If you're dealing with nipple pain after breastfeeding, notice white or purple nipples, or are struggling with breastfeeding discomfort that seems to worsen in the cold — this could be the missing piece of the puzzle.

We see you. We understand the full picture — not just milk supply, but the physical and emotional demands on mums who are doing their best to nourish their babies. And we’re here to support you through it.

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