BFing with nipple shield

vonhva03

Ok, long story short, my LO was a lazy breast feeder from the start...had trouble latching. So I had to supplement from the get go. We introduced the bottle at 3 weeks. I have been pumping and giving her that on top of a little formula. She would latch 1 out of 5 times but never seemed satisfied. Around 4 weeks, she was fighting the nipple and bottle so I talked to my LCD and she suggested a nipple shield because my breats are very large and my LO hates the sandwich I have to make. I think it's to much for her. Anyway, for about a month, I was able to breast feed with the nipple shield just fine and then would give the bottle when we were out. Well, after LO's 2 month shots, she now screams at the nipple shield. Even when I pump alittle before hand. I have started to bottle feed her right next to my naked breast, and to skin to skin as well, but I just need encouragement! Any advice on how to wean from the shield so I can get back o the breast....and I know bottle feeding isn't heinz, but I use that so she's will get her food or else she wouldn't eat thanks!

angelina477

She will hate it but it will work. Just keep trying. Try singing or rocking to soothe her while feeding. Try putting her to the breast before she gets too hungry. I am 42 F so I feel your pain. I had to get a nipple shield when I was initially engorged. I also used them for about 6 weeks with DD1.

88eve88

I just started using a nipple shield yesterday because my poor nipples need a break (it's painful!).  And my LC appointment isn't until Monday.  However, I've been doing a little research and some suggest starting a feeding session with the shield on and then after a few minutes, once LO is fully interested in eating, take the shield off and continue the rest of the feeding without it.  I'm not sure how effective this method is, but it's worth a shot!  Good luck!

GoldenPeaches

I'm confused, is your problem that she won't breastfeed at all or that she won't wean from the shield?

If it's that she won't wean from the shield, I say don't worry about it. No sense pushing her before she's ready. I've used the shield for every single feeding since day 1. My IBCLC said he's just not ready to do without it. No harm done. 

vonhva03

It use to be that she wouldnt breastfeed at all, but did fine with the nipple shield...and now she cries at the nipple shield....