5 TIPS FOR NIPPLE SHIELDS

Are you using a nipple shield and/or came home from the Hospital with a nipple shield?

My hope is your were...

Sized appropriately for the nipple shield
Shown how to apply and care for the nipple shield
How to latch baby effectively on a nipple shield
Shown how to recognize a good feeding and how to wean from a nipple shield
Given information as to WHY you were given a shield (preterm, possible tongue tie, low tone to name a few few) and options of IBCLC's to follow up with.

Maybe you recall some of this being shared but you were in information overload and just wanted to feed your baby? I know, it can be so hard.

If this sounds like you and/or you need help with latching your baby and/or using a nipple shield please call your IBCLC.

5 TIPS FOR WEANING OFF NIPPLE SHIELDS.

1. SKIN TO SKIN AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE, LET BABY CRAWL TO BREAST

2. WATCH FOR EARLY HUNGER CUES (ALLOWS FOR DO-OVERS! BEFORE HANGRY)

3. DEEP LATCH TECHNIQUE, BREAST COMPRESSIONS!

4. YOU CAN TRY NIPPLE SHIELD TO START AND/OR NURSE, LET A FEW MINUTES PASS (ACTIVELY SUCKING/SWALLOWING MILK EASING HUNGER) AND THEN **quickly** REMOVE AND LATCH ON USING DEEP LATCH ON BARE BREAST. Baby upset? Use the shield, try again later.

5. YOU CAN TRY PUMPING FOR A MINUTE TO EVERT NIPPLES AND THEN LATCH W/O SHIELD. Not working? Use shield, try again at your discretion.

This really takes an IBCLC to do an assessment and PRACTICE AND PATIENCE x10000.

Remember! Keep your milk flowing and baby well fed, watch for adequate voids and stools and keep checking in with your baby's Doctor and IBCLC.

PRACTICE AND PATIENCE. LEARNING TOGETHER!!