Jessica states:

No offense on nipple shields, but I have never seen them do any woman
any
good.  I have only seen them complicate the whole breastfeeding
relationship.

Perhaps, Jessica, the ones who have used them temporarily have not
needed to call you for further help.

I agree that they are often given out too freely.  That's why we have a
policy that states they are to be used only when other efforts have
"failed" and that the if a nurse initiates their use, LC must be
informed so she can follow through with the mom.

Just to touch on a few instances where they can actually "save" a
breastfeeding relationship:
1-Baby has gotten "hooked" on a bottle and absolutely won't latch to the
breast.  Shield can be a transition back to breast one step at a time.
2-In spite of not having had any other type of nipple in his mouth, baby
seems to need to feel nipple stimulation in the back of his mouth
befored he will sustain suckling. (Most often with flat or inverted
nipples-certainly not all babies in this situation need a shield)
3-Baby is taking more time than mom is comfortable with in catching on
to nursing.  In spite of our reassurances and suggestions, she is ready
to give it up if she doesn't see some measure of "success" right now.
4-Premie doesn't have the ability to keep the nipple/areola shaped in
her mouth between sucks. (See Paula Meier's research on this.)

So, while there are some individuals (unfortunately including some
IBCLCs) who are too quick to throw a shield at the mom without trying
(or having available) other approaches, please don't trash ALL use of
them.  Like any other tool, they have their place and they can be useful
or abused.  Any use of a shield needs follow-up to be sure baby is
transferring adequate milk and to help transition off the shield.

Winnie - who went from "never-ever, they're just a lazy way to deal with
a problem"  to "glad they are available in certain situations"

             ***********************************************
The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM)
mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html