Reply to: Hoffmann/breast shells Date: Thu, 12 Jun 1997 12:47:58 -0400 From: pat Bull <[log in to unmask]> Subject: Re: Inverted nipples/breast shells In a message dated 97-06-11 12:59:18 EDT, you write: > I have just been >asked to do a memo on this for the doctors in the town and would like >to know if anyone still recommeds doing Hoffmans, or using shells? Hello Netters, What I am finding, at least here in US is that most LCs and RNs are no longer teaching the Hoffmans exercises and nipple stretching, but are still recommending the breast shells/Hobbit shells for flat/inverted nipples. Medela, as I was the one that wrote up the info, states to wear the shells a few weeks before due date. I changed that from a few months prior to due date because it was one more thing a mother had to do and felt guilty if she did not start soon enough and length of time wearing them was not that significant. We are not sure if it truly "breaks down adhesions". That is why that was deleted out. What we do know is that after wearing the shells, the nipple is assisted in becoming slightly more protruded. I find that it also helps moms in bringing the shells to the hospital where many hospital still do not carry them. In my clinical experience, I found that, again, the nipple was slightly pulled out after removing the shells, therefore latch-on of baby easier. PS- they do not cause labor with wear. That is another one of those wivestales going around. Any other questions, you are free to e-mail me privately. Pat Bull, RN, IBCLC The Breastfeeding Connection/Medela Naperville, IL Hi Lactnetters, I have always been been a proponent of "natural" breastfeeding, by this, meaning avoiding accessories or gadgets that people in other cultures do not have access to. Therefore, when the upper question and answer were posted, I asked myself whether western women have the exclusivity in being endowed with breast "with adhesions." Are adhesions an intrinsic part of breastfeeding difficulties (experienced by mothers all over the world) or do they constitute a cultural breastfeeding problem (exclusive to developed countries "fortunate" enough to have access to gadgets which can bail them out)? For those of you in other parts of the world less developed than the United States, could you enlighten me on whether adhesions (1) occur where you are, (2) cause breastfeeding difficulties and (3) how women with adhesion overcome their problem (if it is a problem for them). Many thanks, Nicole Bernshaw