Diane, thanks for your "conference report" on nipple shields. I
think discussion of this topic is very important. I'm sure many
(like me) have been "in the closet" about using nipple
shields.  If we can be objective about using this "technology"
then we'll have the clear information to better serve our
patients.

The last mom who I showed how to use a nipple shield called
me a few weeks later to tell me that the baby was now
"nursing the naked breast" and that the shield had allowed
her baby to bf through the difficult early days when he
refused the breast. Without it, she told me, she would have
switched to bottles and formula. "I know you think shields
aren't the best solution" she said, "but you know, I think you
should lighten up. It worked great, and we're a happy nursing
couple now."

Another LC looking forward to the upcoming JHL article,
Margery Wilson, IBCLC