Kathleen and others, There should certainly be no flames for this long-suffering mum. Perhaps a medal would be more in order. Anyway, to my 2 cents' worth... I have a friend who is an IBCLC and NMAA Counsellor who quite often sees babies with high arched palates, and has a lot of success with the silicone nipple shields in these cases. I know there are lots of potential problems associated with nipple shields, but they are better than total weaning. I assume that the extra layer of the shield helps fill in the gap of the high palate, so baby gets a better seal, more easily than trying to exaggerate the gape. Or perhaps it helps stop the nipple tip slipping up into the arch. Anyway, it might be worth a try. I also understand it is quite possible to have deep breast pain that is being referred from nipple damage - it doesn't always have to be thrush. Just my thoughts for this mum if the only alternative is weaning. Joy Anderson IBCLC, NMAA Breastfeeding Counsellor Perth, Western Australia