Advice pls - Nipple pain not getting any better

[AnyDream]

Ok, well I've really been struggling feeding DD (now nearly 9 m.o) on the LHS for the last few weeks. I'm yelping when DD starts feeding and even more when she fusses or tugs. I've been scrupulous with attachment but only sometimes achieve a degree of comfort for part of the feed (never the whole feed).

It has been quite red and aggravated, but no other signs of cracks/discharge. I've wondered if it's thrush and treated half-heartedly with Daktarin - which makes it itchy - But haven't really had much improvement. No signs of thrush in DD's mouth or on the other nipple.

Am I better off going to the GP - since last time I reported a problem she didn't even examine me (??!!) or finding a LC...Can LCs diagnose things like thrush/vasospasm or does a doctor have to do this?

If it is deemed to be thrush, are there any other treatments besides Daktarin? It's really quite irritating in itself.

I just really want some relief, I'm avoiding feeding DD on that side which isn't good.

[KatieRabbit]

It could well be thrush. I had mine diagnosed by a GP although I suspected that was what it was as attaching/feeing etc hurt like anything and my attachment was fine. The pain also continued long after DD came off. I had a shiny red mark around each nipple, but no other visible signs. DD didn't have any signs either but was treated with Nilstat. i would go to the GP. I used daktarin for 7 days but after about 24 hrs the pain really eased. I applied it after every feed and wiped it off before the next feed. You should get other creams if u have an allergy etc to Daktarin. An LC could diagnose it but you may need a prescription for stuff so may as well go to a GP to start with. The Nilstat was on prescription.

[Ezz]

You can get Nilstat drops over the counter (I did for DS). But, I've heard thrush is a really commonly over-diagnosed problem (in fact, I don't think I had it - I gave up on the thrush treatment after a week or so with no difference). Personally, I would check out a LC rather than your GP - unless your GP is a breastfeeding expert (which is unlikely). If you do need prescription meds, you can always go to your GP second.

[Trillian]

I don't have any advice but I hope it clears up soon for you hun.

[~clover~]

It sounds like thrush. Get nilstat. I used it. It works good. You can also use a nipple sheild for a day or two to give that side a bit of a break. I had cracks & used them for a day or two & haven't had to use them since.
An LC told me it sounded like thrush over the phone. They are excellent. Thay really know what they are talking about coz it's all they do. Go see one. They are amazing people!! I am 2 hours from mine & the ech nurse rang her for me. Thats why it was done over the phone.
Good luck.

[AnyDream]

Thanks everyone!

I have nilstat drops already - how do you apply them and how often?? I'm getting desperate and will try this today even tho I'm booked to see the dr tomorrow.