Basking Babies, LLC, Breastfeeding Information, Des Moines Lactation Consultant Doula
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Cupboard Cures for Vasospasm

These articles in the "Cures" section are copyrighted and are not to be reprinted without permission of the author.

These cupboard cures are remedies that work for some moms but they are not meant as a treatment plan for your specific situation. If you are experiencing a breastfeeding challenge, I can provide professional support and together we can create an treatment plan specifically tailored to you and your baby's needs. Some breastfeeding situations can be remedied with cupboard cures moms have used for years but in other cases you may need care and support from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and/or your Healthcare Provider. I would be honored to help you on your breastfeeding journey. Please contact me. 

What is vasospasm?
  • Painful!!  And that pain is caused by a sudden constriction or narrowing of blood vessels in the nipples. 
  • It usually occurs right after nursing, but can also occur between breastfeedings.  
  • This pain is throbbing, burning, and very uncomfortable and may last for a few minutes or occasionally up an hour or two. 
  • Some moms may have vasospasm and notice the color changes but do not have pain associated with it.  
  • If there is no pain, then it is usually not a concern. 

What are the symptoms or what does it look like?
  • The nipples turn white shortly after nursing and then there is usually a noticeable triphasic color change – from white to blue to red – as blood flow returns. 
  • The color change may also be biphasic – from white to blue. 
  • Cold often triggers the vasospasm or makes it worse. 

What are some cupboard cures for vasospasm?

These cupboard cures are just ideas to get started on the road to recovery but please contact me for a personal consultation and an in-depth treatment plan specific to you and your baby. I bring over 30 years of experience working with parents and babies and over ten years as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

Be sure the vasospasm is not being caused by an underlying issue such as poor latch or yeast. If other issues are present correct these problems as you work to get more comfortable.
  • It is important to keep your nipples as warm as possible. Stopping practices like air drying will be helpful.
  • Applying dry warmth to the nipple will help relax the “cramping” of blood vessels. Keeping extra warm by wrapping in a blanket when nursing and sipping a warm beverage may be helpful.
  • When the baby comes off the breast cover the nipple as soon as possible with a soft cloth. If not sensitive to wool, a wool breast pad may be helpful for providing extra warmth. 
  • Warm some olive oil massaged into the nipple after nursing may be comforting.
  • After showering cover the nipples before getting out of the shower enclosure. 
  • Ibuprofen may be used as a pain reliever.
  • Avoid caffeine and nicotine.
  • Some moms take B vitamins and find relief. 
  • Supplementation of calcium and magnesium may also be helpful.  
  • Occasionally a medication may be prescribed by your health care provider if the above cures do not help. 

A Cupboard Cure Recipe for dry heat application:


Make your own Rice Sock
  • Fill a sock or a cloth bag with uncooked rice
  • If you like lavender (aromatherapy for relaxing) you may put some fresh or dried lavender in with the rice
  • Microwave 20 -40 seconds (or until desired warmth is achieved). Note: when you remove the rice sock from the microwave it could be hot. Handle with caution. 
  • Hold the rice sock against the nipple (over your shirt) until blood flow resumes

Although the pain of vasospasm can be quite intense many are open to the above  “cures” and have experienced resolution of the issue within a few weeks and continue nursing for many months!

Vasospasms can be painful and discouraging. Angela is an IBCLC and can offer both professional medical help and support with this or any step in your breastfeeding journey. See more information on breastfeeding consultations and contact Angela at 515-210-1868

Please note: If you have a question about a medical matter you should consult your healthcare provider. Do not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your healthcare provider.
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Angela Swieter (RN, BSN, IBCLC, ICD, ICPE, ICPD), owner of Basking Babies, is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and has been supporting moms and families through birth, breastfeeding, baby, and beyond for over 30 years.

•Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s Degree
•International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
•International Certified Birth and Post-partum Doula
•International Certified Educator
•Over 30 years of experience working with moms and babies. 


CONTACT ANGELA TODAY

WE'RE HERE TO HELP. REACH OUT.

We serve families all over Central Iowa, including: Des Moines, Ames, Ankeny, Altoona, West Des Moines and more.

​Our office is located at the Altoona Medicap at 950 28th Ave SW Altoona, Iowa 50009

 email: lactationlady@live.com | phone: 515-210-1868
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  • HOME
  • About
    • Meet Angela
    • IBCLC - What it means
    • Client Testimonials
    • Awards and Basking Babies in the News >
      • IBCLC Care Award Winner
  • Classes
    • Upcoming Classes and Events
    • B.O.O.B. Camp
    • Breastfeeding "Do's" for Doulas
    • The Pumping Class
    • Skip Baby Puree
    • Mother's Milk for Multiples
    • Baby, Breastfeeding, and Blues for Busy Parents
    • Grandparents Class: Raising a baby now vs. then
    • Basking Babies Breastfeeding Preparation Video
    • Breastfeeding Anew
    • Education for Professionals >
      • Breastfeeding Best Practices
  • Services
    • Services at Guiding Star Marshalltown
    • Services Northern Iowa
    • Breastfeeding Consultations
    • Breastfeeding Bundles
    • Do I Need a Lactation Consultant?
    • Benefits of a Consultation with an IBCLC
    • Unique Breastfeeding Situations
    • Gift Certificates
    • Pay for Services
    • Reservation Fee
    • Doula Partners
  • Cures
    • Blebs
    • Engorgement
    • Low Milk Supply
    • Mastitis
    • Oversupply
    • Plugged Ducts
    • Sore Nipple Care
    • Vasospasm
    • Yeast
  • Resources
    • Breastfeeding and Adoption
    • What if I have an unhappy feeling when my milk lets down?
    • Breastfeeding: Make it a Happy Dance
    • 490 Hours
    • Recipes
    • Other Resources
  • Annual Conference
    • 2021 Fall Conference >
      • 2021 Fall Conference Information
      • 2021 Conference Registration
      • 2021 Fall Conference Sponsors
    • 2019 Fall Conference >
      • 2019 Fall Conference Information
      • 2019 Conference Registration
      • 2019 Fall Conference Sponsors
    • 2018 Fall Conference >
      • Sign up for 2019 Fall Conference Reminder
      • 2018 Fall Conference Information
      • 2018 Fall Conference Sponsors
    • 2017 Fall Conference >
      • 2017 Fall Conference Information
      • 2017 Fall Conference Sponsors
    • 2016 Fall Conference Information >
      • 2016 Conference Registration
      • 2016 Conference Display Table Information
    • 2015 Fall Conference Photos and Information >
      • 2015 Conference Registration - CLOSED
      • 2014 Fall Conference
      • Baby, Breastfeeding, and Blues for Busy Parents
  • Contact