In a message dated 6/11/03 12:32:28 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

> If the baby is not gaining weight appropriately, then perhaps she needs
> to do Domperidone, herbs, and extra insurance pumping, along with breast
> compression.  Going back to basic latch help is always good too....I use
> Jack Newman MD's latch instructions at www.breastfeedingonline.com.
>
> Nipple shields are tools, and in certain circumstances, they are fine to
> use. You don't use a hammer when you need a screw driver, and the
> problem with nipple shields is that they are used as an all purpose
> "tool," in place of skilled knowledgeable help. The rap they get is not
> altogether deserved, as there are many facets of what is going on in
> these complex situations.
>

I feel the same about galactogogues. They also are a tool but mothers are
telling me they are being told to get a galactogogue when ineffective and/or
infrequent milk removal is still the unresolved issue. If the baby has an
underlying problem that is interfering with suckling, then production probably is
going to drop/become a problem if adequate compensatory milk expression has not
occurred. And a galactogogue may not be needed if adequate milk removal is
introduced.

Lately I'm hearing from mothers all over the country who are getting the
impression that a galactogogue vs. adequate milk removal will take care of their
production problems. This really concerns me... Because taking a galactogogue,
many of which have side effects or we don't know exactly what they do, is
easier than increasing milk expression sessions, mothers don't want to hear me say
that a galactogogue cannot replace adequate milk removal.

Sorry to go on. One of my more recent bugaboos!

Karen

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