IT HURTS AT FIRST! I'm going totally against the grain of a lot of established and traditional advice, but my Mum told me when I was pregnant with my Daughter (my first born) and I am so greatful that she did. In my opinion, it flipping well WAILS at first and (don't shoot me) I actually think it's natural that it does.
I strongly feel that if women weren't made to feel that they were "doing it wrong" when it hurts, they'd carry on for longer. They would have a focus through the agony. I wish that there was someone to tell women who are first time breastfeeders that if they can get through the first week, they will come through the pain. I have spoken to women who said that it hurt them so much that they couldn't do it long term. It makes me so sad to think that no one told them that it does stop hurting.
If I see one more Its Not Supposed To Hurt article I'll implode. I'm not an expert or official consultant, but I have spoken to a lot of women who Breastfeed and 90% tell me that it hurt them (toe curling pain was a common description) at first. My Husband used to cringe and wince watching me latch our Daughter on at first; I used to swear, cry, gasp...but after 20 seconds it didn't hurt and by week two I was latching her on pain free.
I'm unsure as to why the initial pain has to be shrouded in secrecy but honestly...after going through pregnancy and birth women deserve to know the truth, and they deserve to know that they can get through it and the pain fades.
