In a message dated 97-10-13 07:41:42 EDT, you write:

>Concerning nipple shields, I must respectfully disagree with you, Pat.  You
>say, "Nipple shields can only make sore nipples worse, especially if it is
>undiagnosed yeast.  Please try to use BF products appropriately."  You
>mentioned a situation (sore nipples from biting) where you would use a
nipple
>shield, which again seems contradictory to me.  (Am I just misunderstanding
>what you are saying?)

Cher and Netters,
If you think this is confusing to the lactation field, what do you think it
does to the other medical, RD, etc fields.  The only point I am trying to
make is that you need to assess every mother-baby diad and treat them
individually according to what #1 you think will work the best, #2 what
mother/dad can handle, #3 attending physician will accept.  I know for a fact
that there are many different types of materials used for nipple shields.
 Depending on which one you use, when you put a sore and lacerated nipple in
a shield, it tends to rub up against the shield causing more friction on the
nipple.  Then the baby now has learned a different latch-on and sucking with
the shield and has a potential of getting onto the nipple and causing further
damage.  That has only been my experience and phone calls that I have gotten
throughout the US (since I am one of the lucky ones that receives phone calls
with various product complaints/concerns).
"Car Pool"- "On weekdays, what forces you to be on time for work.  On
weekends, a chance to drive five muddy children home from soccer practice".
  by Mrs. Webster's Guide to Business.  (and I know well with a traveling
soccer kid)
Pat Bull, RN, IBCLC
The Breastfeeding Connection/Medela
Naperville, IL