I have tried cutting the end with the holes. But I mostly use the tubing by inserting it into the corner of the baby's mouth once he is latched, and therefore I find it slips in much easier if you DO NOT cut it. I also find it is easier to teach the parents how far to insert the tubing, by showing them where the little holes are, and that is about how far you would insert it, just past the holes. I also use a syringe inserted into the other end, to clean it afterwards. Laurie Wheeler RN MN IBCLC Mississippi USA *********************************************** Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html To reach list owners: [log in to unmask] Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask] COMMANDS: 1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail 2. To start it again: set lactnet mail 3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet 4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome