When I attended the last ILCA conference in Las Vegas, the newest 
information was mentioned regarding nipple shields and a few other subjects 
that now are no longer true ie lactiferous sinuses.  The instructor had us play 
a game, and I remember her asking us to hold up our hands as to how long we 
had all been IBCLC's...Then came some of the questions and answers.  One of 
the questions was "do nipple shields cause reduced milk transfer?"  About 60% 
or more raised thier hands in agreement, and all said yes by 22%.  I believe 
their was a study done some time ago and that was correct at the time.  
From the latest study's especially w/ premies, nipple shields had no impact on 
milk supply.  One study was done by Molly Pessl (sp) in Washington i believe 
that one was on premature infants.  (don't quote me please).  

Point is the shields apparently, are so thin that more recent study's haven't 
shown them to be a problem.  Expecially, for the reason you are talking about, 
getting the baby back to breast.

However, I would say this, fist and foremost, use bare breast, but if a nipple 
shield helps get a baby to get momma's milk then USE IT.  If you are 
concerned about milk production despite the studies, I would have mom pump 
at least 4 times/day.  I must admit, I am still hesitant despite the study and 
would have mom pump for more stimulation, and then pay close attention 
when baby is 2 months old and the body switches to autocrine function from 
endocrine.  ( i may have put that backwards)...anyway you get the point.


Good Luck  (sorry so long)
wet soggy northern CA
robin

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