Women’s nipples vary enormously - some have small nipples, some large or especially long nipples, others flat nipples or inverted nipples.

In most cases these variations will require little or no special treatment. Always bear in mind that babies do breastfeed, they don't "nipplefeed". If a baby is able to take in a good mouthful of breast, often even flat or inverted nipples will not cause any problems. However, some types of nipples are harder for the baby to latch on to than others, and it might be advisable to spend some time treating a flat or inverted nipple in order to make it easier for your baby to latch on to.

To find out whether you have flat or inverted nipples, gently compress your areola about 3 cm behind your nipple. A normal nipple will evert, or stick out, while an inverted nipple will invert or retract.

If your nipples are flat or inverted, you may want to use Nipple Formers – not to be confused with nipple shields – to try to draw out the nipple. Nipple Formers are worn inside the bra, which may need to be one size larger than normal to have room for the nipple formers. Nipple Formers can be used both during pregnancy or after birth. Consult your lactation specialist if you think you might have flat or inverted nipples.

Sponsored by Medela.