Cathy;
In a recent post you mention using a small nipple shield when baby's
mouth can't take in the regular size.  Do you or other LNers have
suggestions when mom's nipple gets pinched in the small shield?

To me, shields work best when there is enough nipple/areolar tissue
drawn in to allow baby to compress the sinuses (or stretchy areas of the
ducts or whatever you call those regions).  If the shield merely sits on
top of the nipple/areola it isn't much better than using a bottle nipple
as a shield.  This is why most of us suggest turning the shiled partway
inside out before applying to the breast, thus drawing enough in as the
teat portion "pops out".

I find that most moms' nipples won't fit into the smaller shields
leading to soreness or even trauma.  In fact, there are times when I
wish there was a larger diameter shield!  I saw one mom who had the
circulation nearly cut off in her nipple when it did get squeezed into
the small shield.

It seems this is a case of oral-boobular disproportion.  Any
suggestions?  Of course, we're not talking about any routine use of a
shield for any and all perceived problems.  We're talking about those
times when a shield may be just the temporary "crutch" needed to get
past a challenge.  (Please don't flame me with all the "shields are the
Devil's tool" responses.)

Winnie

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