? about nipple shields

Re: ? about nipple shields

• rc1276 member

  November 2009

  It does for me, but that's b/c I have a flat nipple on one side. If you don't have that problem, I don't know if it would help.

  I'd talk to an LC before using a nipple shield -- from what I understand they're really not the best idea unless absolutely necessary.

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• AJluvsLI member

  November 2009

  I don't think the nipple shields help with the latch.  It just makes it easier for the baby to get milk because he doesn't really have to latch on as good.

  If you're having trouble getting your LO to latch you might want to try a LC, they could figure out what is causing the problem (for me it was flat nipples) and give you some better solutions.
  

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• erindawn member

  November 2009

  We use a nipple shield because I have huge, flat nipples and my LO was born early with a tiny mouth and not strong sucking abilities and it absolutely helped him latch on because before he couldn't really find the nipple (picture a baby trying to nurse a flat surface).  Now I think we're stuck with it though. He could do it without, but he won't even attempt without the shield.  Oh well, it's working for us even if it is a pain.
  

  

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• StephB25

  November 2009

  we used shields during the first 2 weeks of her life (now all of 4 wks) but it saved me from giving up and switching to formula.  She went off easily once she was able to latch on her own.  BUT I would talk to the LC- ours was awesome and nailed the problem in 15 seconds and again, kept me from giving up.

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• Mrs.RMama member

  November 2009

  I use a shield to slow down the amount of milk he receives (I have an extremely fast let down). We were only using it in the am feedings but he prefers to use it and will now take a bottle (from me if need be) and from others. I think the shield has helped that fact and it'll be easier when I go back to work.
  

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