In plain words
Vasospasm is a narrowing of the small blood vessels in the nipple. It can make the nipple turn white, then blue, then red as blood returns. Many mothers feel sharp or burning pain during or after a feed. Cold, stress, and wet clothing are often named as triggers. Vasospasm is one of several causes of nipple pain, and lactation providers check for the others before naming it. It is common, and warmth is often described as easing it. If nipple pain is severe, lasts, or comes with fever, call your provider or a .
The deeper version
is a Raynaud-like vasoconstrictive response of the nipple arterioles, typically with a biphasic or triphasic color change (pallor, cyanosis, then erythema) and pain that persists after the feed. It is a clinical diagnosis, and the differential includes trauma, ankyloglossia-related friction, bacterial infection, Candida, dermatitis, and pain (ABM Clinical Protocol #26, Persistent Pain with Breastfeeding). Triggers include cold, stress, and nicotine exposure. Systematic studies are few, and most knowledge derives from case series and expert consensus. Some clinicians consider vasospasm overdiagnosed, and the value of distinguishing it from other causes lies in its management, which is largely supportive.
Where it comes up
- Nipple pain, cracks, and healingPostpartum: Your Body
- Getting a deep latchFeeding Your Baby
- Pumping: how, when, how oftenFeeding Your Baby
- Exclusive pumpingFeeding Your Baby
What mothers here say about vasospasm
No one has posted under this term yet.
Sources
- Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine — ABM Clinical Protocol #26: Persistent Pain with Breastfeeding, revised
- Lawrence RA, Lawrence RM — Breastfeeding: A Guide for the Medical Profession, 8th edition, 2016
- La Leche League International — The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, sore nipples chapter