Caution, caution, caution - In my humble opinion these devices are *Not*
something that one should go out and buy or even have a homemade supply handy
- just in case.  In my humble opinion absolutely NO respectable trials have
been done on these things, no matter what the blurb may say, nor have the
homemade variety.  If one feels that these are needed (and I would look very
carefully at who needs them, you or the client), *Only* the mother should use
this on herself, otherwise you may lay yourself wide open to a lawsuit for
breast tissue damage, psychological damage or assault.

The non-homemade device is marketed by a major UK firm who sells bottles and
teats, etc.  IMHO It is timely to remember that more money is made from
breastfeeding failure than from those who chose not to breastfeeding in the
first place.

There is a strong need in all of us to look as if we are doing something,
trying something - anything . . .  especially so when working in private
practice or within a medical institution.  Aha, a gadget, now that's just the
thing, much easier to hide behind than counselling isn't it??  This is a
dangerous road to walk down and I warn against.

It may be that we need to re-acquaint ourselves with the MAIN trial study. -
see archives for first port of call.

There are times in one's life when we have to accept that we can't have it
all, even if that is breastfeeding. . . .

Stepping down off my box at Speaker's Corner.

Those of you off to Boca Raton - have a WONDERFUL time and please come back
and give a blow by blow account of the event.

kind regards,

Helen Woodman, National Childbirth Trust Breastfeeding Counsellor,
Storrington, West Sussex, UK.
[log in to unmask]