successful breastfeeding using nipple sheilds??

[Taylors_mum]

ok so quick run down... DD1 would not latch on so was formula feed, DD2 i did some research and discovered nipple sheilds she was breastfeed for about 5 months until my supply dropped off.

DS is a week old and until my milk come in he was feeding really well without the sheilds and now i cant get him on without them :hissy: he has a few sucks and then spits my nipple out :thumbsdown:

I REALLY want to feed him for atleast 12months and am willing do to whatever it takes....basically im just hoping for some advice... any successful longterm breastfeeding stories using sheilds?? any tips on getting him off the sheilds??

btw i have tried starting the feeds with the sheild to draw out my nipple and then taking it off but he just gets the cranks and fusses and i give in and put the sheild back on...especially when there is milk spurting everywhere :laughing:

[littleleos]

I used a sheild for about 2 -3 months. I had no nipples and cracks that wouldnt heal. I have heard of mums using them for 8m+++

I used the medulla ones... they are really thin so your nipple still gets some stimulation.

I also recomend that u see a LC.... mine wouldnt let me out of her site when I was using a nipple sheild... do u have a boobie group up at c town. we have a great one down in the gong.

good luck

[The Fox]

My DS is nearly 10 months old and we are still bf using a nipple shield, he wont latch on for more then 10-20 seconds without it. I have no advice on how to wean off them as i have been unsuccessful in that department but just wanted to say that it is possible. I would see a LC though who can make sure you have one that fits you properly and that you are using it correctly

[dreamtobeamummy]

DS hated the shield and wouldn't latch on with it.

I would see a LC though :hugs: Hope you get it sorted

[Taylors_mum]

Thanks guys....am going to contact a LC and see what advise they can give.

Olliebollie thats awesome your still going strong.... like you i can only get bubby on for a few seconds without the sheild so ive kinda come round to the idea of just long term feeding with the sheild:yes:

littleleos how do i go about looking for a local boobie group??

[kiki07]

The ABA has some info on their website that might help.

http://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo/bla.html

Can you give him abit more time, and let him find the nipple himself? he might just lick it at first, especially if there is milk going everywhere (put a towel underneath you) but eventually he should latch on. You can also express a bit beforehand so your boobs are not as tight and hard to latch on to.

take care,

K

[littleleos]

gee... did u do the midwife program at c town??? they meet up quite regularly. I went with my friends and 2 midwifes went. a few of the mums where breast feeding. you could call the post natal ward... or your CHN... or you could just drive down to ours. they are at fairy meadow I think on tuesdays... about 4 of us where using the sheilds at the time. good luck

[naebie]

I used shields for every feed on the breast (I was exclusively expressing initially) until DD was 6 months and then one day she just attached without one on!

She'll be 18 months next week and we are still breastfeeding :)

[Taylors_mum]

thanks littleleos... ill make a few phone calls and if i cant find one local ill PM you to get the details of your group... Fairymeadow is only 30mins drive from me so no biggy :)

Thanks for that info kiki.

Im going to give it a shot without the sheilds... I have a bad crack in one nipple atm (it bleeds with each feed, ouch) so i dont know if its going to send mixed msgs if i feed one side with a sheild (until my nipple heals) and one side without. Should i just wait until my nipple is healed and start then??

[littleleos]

I started weaning aiden from the shelids when my nipples where finally healed. its up to u and how you feel (pain wise)

the breastfeeding drop in group is on at 2pm-3:30. its at the fairy meadow community centre across from woollies. this group was over 1 year ago so u might have to call the centre to confirm times etc.

the group offers:
assistance and advice on breast feeding
support with the use of nipple sheilds
and an opportunity to meet other mothers
no appointments is required.

no number on the brocure

hope your doing ok