Hi  Louise,

I agree with Barbara that usually a short or "tied" tongue is not a
situation where the use of a nipple sheild is appropriate.   However, in
this mum's case (as it sounds like she is near the end of her resolve to
feed her baby at the breast)  I would try a sheild if only for a few days
to help protect the mum's nipples - and allow them to heal.

I have also found that sometimes a sheild helps a baby with a short tongue
feed more effectively as it helps to support the nipple in the baby's mouth
and maintain its protracted state, taking the onus off the short tongue.
Please note that I say "sometimes"....but maybe its worth a try, especially
with the mother's damaged nipples.  If you do try one, please ensure that
it is a silicone one and that the mum's nipple fits comfortably into it
otherwise it could cause further damage.  Most brands come in varying sizes
now.  She also needs to lubricate the sheild by expressing a small amount
of milk into it before attaching her baby, to prevent friction on the sore
nipples.

The tongue sounds as if it may be "tied" even with no frenulum
visible....the heart shape is classic of  a tied frenulum.....what do other
lactnetters think?  Is it possible a frenotomy would help this Mum and her
babe?
Brenda Donnelly
Brisbane   Australia