Mary,  

 

     I understand your concern about nipple shields, as we have all seen
moms who were poorly instructed on the correct usage of them and then had
the task of correcting whatever problem may have resulted; whether it be low
weight gain, poor supply, or refusal to suck at the breast without the
device.  However, to suggest that they not be used in the first 2-3 days may
be a bit idealistic rather than realistic.  I have seen too many times where
the baby would do nothing but sleep at the breast until the shield was
applied.  He would suck on the finger, suck on the bottle, but sleep at the
breast.  (even with STS)  Put a shield on, and he sucks for the first time,
making mom relax and have confidence in her and her babies ability to
breastfeed.  Sometimes the shield is only needed to "jump start" the baby.
Often times, it is no longer being used the next day.  I have always
believed that it is better to have the baby suck on the breast with the
shield than to not suck at the breast at all.  

 

Linda Hill


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