Hi,

I guess there is a difference between what's "normal" and what's "common". After the recent problems you have experienced. You have done so well this week, and I think you will find that it gets easier and easier, and that one day soon breastfeeding will really be painfree and normal. The nipple won't be compressed and will be whatever colour it normally is. Your baby will get proficient at latching - even at 3 in the morning. It is common at this stage to have good days and bad (in mothering, as well as breastfeeding.) You are both still on your Lplates - but you are doing really well, by the sounds of it.