Vasospasm tends to last for longer periods of time than nipple blanching and does not go away even with good attachment at the breast during feeds. Cold is usually the trigger for vasospasm. This happens when your baby stops breastfeeding and pulls off the breast exposing your nipple to the cooler air.
How long does it take for vasospasm to heal?
One 30 mg tablet of the slow release formulation once a day often almost always takes away the pain of vasospasm completely. After two weeks, we recommend you stop the medication. If pain returns (about 10% of the time), start it again.
How do you fix vasospasm?
Things to try:
- Keep your nipples warm. ...
- Wear an extra layer of clothing.
- Use 'breast warmers', e.g. Flectalon (available from the Australian Breastfeeding Association).
- Avoid cold exposure (or sudden temperature changes).
- Do not 'air' your nipples.
- Warm your bathroom before undressing for showers.
