Dear Ann, I don't think the word addicted is really what is going on
here, though I can see how it appears that way. As my colleague Barbara
Wilson Clay says, there are babies who have other issues occurring, and
who, for whatever reason, have a hard time breastfeeding. We may not
know enough to recognize and be able to solve all issues....

If the baby is not gaining weight appropriately, then perhaps she needs
to do Domperidone, herbs, and extra insurance pumping, along with breast
compression.  Going back to basic latch help is always good too....I use
Jack Newman MD's latch instructions at www.breastfeedingonline.com.

Nipple shields are tools, and in certain circumstances, they are fine to
use. You don't use a hammer when you need a screw driver, and the
problem with nipple shields is that they are used as an all purpose
"tool," in place of skilled knowledgeable help. The rap they get is not
altogether deserved, as there are many facets of what is going on in
these complex situations.

Is the baby tongue tied? Have you tried adding flow at breast with a
feeding tube?

Kathleen

-----Original Message-----
From: Lactation Information and Discussion
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Ann Conlon-Smith
Sent: Wednesday, June 11, 2003 10:12 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Nipple Shield Weaning


Help!  Mother of 3 week old nipple shield addicted baby cannot get baby
to nurse though we have tried several things like switching the baby to
the breast during feeding, different positions, etc.  Problem with
shield use is that milk supply dwindles and infant weight loss
repeatedly... Mother is now pumping regularly and supply is increasing,
but shield use continues with frustration on mother's part.  I am sorry
to say that this is why I am not a proponent of nipple shields in almost
all cases!  But now -- what?  Any magical tricks of the trade here to
get this baby to nurse at the breast?  Quick responses appreciated as
mom is in bad shape.  Thanks, Ann Conlon-Smith, IBCLC

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