In a message dated 7/11/98 1:30:08 PM, Louanne wrote:

<<After searching archives I was interested in getting info on the suction
device used to pull out severely inverted nipples.  The LC at the hospital
where this mom gave birth suggested nipple shield and pumping but there is no
sign of the nipple>>

In my experience, a nipple everter (looks similar to the adapted syringe that
can be fashioned) works very well for most mildly and some moderately inverted
or retracting nipples. Utilizing a nipple everter instead of a pump can save a
significant amount of money for these purposes. Pumping seems to work better
for nipples inverted to a greater degree. It may require from one to many
pumping sessions depending on degree of nipple variation.

There was also a little suction cup device developed to fit on a nipple and
stay there exerting suction for an extended period of time. I have never used
that device. Has anyone here used it?

In the case above, if pumping with a good pump will not bring the nipple out
to a more protruding position, a nipple everter is less likely to - imo - but
ya never know, may be worth a try, depends what you have most easily
available.

If baby cannot latch onto the breast no matter what, and baby can latch and
extract milk with a shield in place, that is an option to consider instead of
totally pumping and feeding EM/bottle. At least baby would be feeding near
breast from breast and mom gets some stimulation/emptying. Mom should pump pc
and supp w/EM @ shield next feeding.

Deborah Tobin RN BSN IBCLC LCCE
Springfield, Virginia USA
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