Nipple shields in general: Yes, sometimes they are needed for some
moms and some babies. The fit for me is what works for the individual
mom and baby.  I tend to fit to mom as the baby will eventually be on
mom minus the shield, but sometimes we fit to baby if it is not
uncomfortable for mom. And yes, I always have the mom pump too.  I see
it as a last resort when mom is about to quit, or a first resort if
she is flowing with milk and the baby just won't latch after days and
days of bottles.  I don't tell moms what we have to do, only the
things that we can try and see what works.  It's her body and her baby
and her choice.

As for them in the stores, I am glad they are there as I do not want
to sell products. In my area, there are sizes available.  It's a
personal thing, but I don't feel comfortable 'selling'. They are less
than $10 in stores, and that is fine.  If I think it is necessary, I
just send someone off to the store.  And, well, if they are not an
option, I think of something else, meaning, I didn't need one after
all.

Take care,
Pam MazzellaDiBosco, IBCLC, RLC

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