Let's Breastfeed

Should I use nipple shields?

Dear Geraldine,

I have been trying to breastfeed my baby for 3 weeks and sadly I just can’t seem to get it right or get it to ‘stay right’. It seems as though things go well for a little while and then everything changes and I am back to expressing and bottle feeding. I just can’t maintain the expressing regime for much longer and I am feeling deflated as I seem to always fight with my baby when it comes to breastfeeding, so was wondering what you thought about trying nipple shields?

Thank you in advance.

Claire Wells

Hi Claire,

I don’t know why some moms just seem to come up against everything. You are more than welcome to come and visit me for a consult if you would like to get to the bottom of all this. If you want to try the shields in the meantime, I think you should go for it. You sound like you have been through the mill and can do with a little respite.

The nipple shields will help with slowing a fast flow – which often causes baby to pull off the breast and cry madly. They will also create a great tool for baby to latch onto if baby’s suck is weak and baby seems to keep slipping off the breast. Sometimes they can help with nipples soreness, though unless your nipples are small, flat or inverted, I would not really advise using them for this reason, as they can lead to a more traumatised tender nipple.

I hope this answers your question, I can’t see what the exact problem you are experiencing is? As your baby is 3 weeks old and you are on the verge of giving in to bottle, I think it is worth a try.

Consider booking a consult though, we may be able to sort your problem quickly and effectively. I can usually see you on the same day at the clinic if this helps.

Kind regards,

Geraldine

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