Message text written by Lactation Information and Discussion
>Can you tell me the pros and cons of cutting the thin silicone (Medela)
nipples shields in order to wean a baby off the shield?<

Netters,  I did post something about this a while back so it is in the
archives.  I know there are alot of new people on lactnet since that time
and I do not want anyone thinking it is appropriate to cut shields down for
weaning purposes.  As the LC for Medela, I would like to state that Medela
does not recommend cutting down the shield.  There have been some past
cases (not with Medela's shield) of people cutting back the shield and baby
getting cuts from the rough edges.  A thought had occured to me a while
back, in fact someone had made the suggestion to me, would there be a need
for a weaning shield?  In other words, a shield that has been manufactured
as a "cut-down" shield.  If anyone is cutting down shields or has in the
past, I need some info from you.  I know I use to, but that was a while
back.  Please e-mail me privately, as I do not want to start a war here.  I
would be interested in anyones opinion, pro and con.  Thanks.  I know that
I use to hate using them, but then when I had a few moms ask for a nipple
shield because that is the only way they successfully nursed their prior
baby in addition to one mom that I consulted with tell me she successfully
nursed for a year with a nipple shield.  It opened my eyes up to maybe it
is my blindedness that is judging nipple shields.  By the way,  Paula Meier
and Nancy Hurst just finished up their research on premies and Nipple
Shields.  Hopefully it will be accepted by Journal of Human Lactation.  It
will be presented as poster session at the Research Society Conference. 
Data did show that there was statistical and clinical significant
difference in milk transfer using nipple shields for premature babies with
no effect on the duration of BF.  Pretty interesting stuff.  There are some
places for products, but we much learn how to use them correctly and
appropriately.  They problem is that they are overused, abused, and
misused.  
With taxes coming up:  Definition of "Financial Statement" --- I'm broke.
and "Accountant" ---Someone who takes your money for counting your money. 
(as I just finished up with my accountant) by " Mrs. Webster's Guide to
Business".
Pat Bull, RN, IBCLC
The Breastfeeding Connection/Medela, Inc
Naperville, Il - sunny and feeling a bit warmer, not alot though