Anyone using nipple shields or nipple shells right now?

AnneShirleyBlythe · May 2011

This guy is, on both counts!

Lila has latched very well since birth (way, way WAY unlike Jack who was a struggle to even feed for months). However, due to some vigorous nursing, I now have scabby nips. I talked to my mom (she was an LC) and she happened to have some nipple shells hanging around, so I have those on now, and I also bought an nipple shield. She will nurse through it, but I know she doesn't get as much milk that way.

Can anyone tell me how long it took your scabby nips to heal if you got them? I never got so much as sore with Jack (mostly since he wouldn't eat anyway, at first). If you use the shells, did you use lanolin as well, or did you just let the air circulate? If you used the shield, how long until you weaned off of it?

(OH and my little AW for the day, I started my freezer stash today! Somehow my formerly lazy-as-hell right boob has decided to be a superstar!)

jg_girl1 · May 2011

My scabby nips healed in just a few days. I think taking hot showers helped a bit by softening the scabs. I still use the nipple shield every once in a while because she seems to randomly have trouble latching on. I never really use the lanolin much I guess I just keep forgetting that I have it.

calm_angel_2003 · May 2011

ive had to use the nipple shield since day 1 and started weaning last week

carishabob · May 2011

Patty, do you keep the shells on all the time while the ladies are healing? I bought some just in case, but I'm curious.

Iamthedigs · May 2011

Yes, I am. It allowed me to feed in comfort while my little ones jaundice was cleared up, and my nipples quit cooperating when my milk came in. My plan is to see the LC next week to see if I can get her weaned off of it. I am a little worried she isn't getting as much breast milk as she should, because she has been a eating machine today and not seem satisfied, but I suppose it could be a growth spurt also!