What do you tell moms about getting *off* the nipple shield?

The literature tells us we shouldn't "cut back" on the "hat" part of the
(newer, better) silicone shields, as this may produce sharp edges that can
hurt mom or babe.

I tell mom to offer breast first -- without shield -- because there are
those babies who just decide one day that shieldless is okay.  If that isn't
working, I suggest mom offer the first part of the feed with shield -- then
"whip it away" when baby is in a semi-sated, and presumably more
cooperative, mood.  And, I suggest that those early-morning feeds are often
the best time to "go natural:" baby (and mom!) are sleepy enough that
instinctive suckling may kick in.

I've read of a suggestion to "stuff" the end of the nipple shield, on the
theory that baby will soon give up on the milkless-shielded-nipple, and then
accept the breast.  That seems so cruel -- and, counter-productive for a
dyad that has already experienced so much BF difficulty that shields and LCs
are part of the scenario already.

But I have always thought most of these suggestions stink.  Anyone have a
better way?




Liz Brooks, JD, IBCLC
Wyndmoor, PA, USA

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