Lynn, see 'Preparing for Breastfeeding: treatment of inverted and
non-protractile nipples in pregnancy', Midwifery 1994, 10; 200-14.    Conclusion
-  that '....there is no basis for recommending the use of either Hoffman's
nipple stretching exercises or breast shells as antenatal preparation for women
with inverted and non-protractile nipples who wish to breastfeed.  Given the
lack of evidence to support these and other antenatal preparations there are no
grounds for midwives to continue routine breast examination in pregnancy for
this purpose.'
Hope this helps,
Mary Broadfoot, Paisley, Scotland
[log in to unmask]