nipple shield experts?

[Sleepybunny]

DD2 is 6 weeks, and EBF so far. It was a rocky start but we are getting there one fussy feed at a time.

I'm using nipple shields as my nipples could handle no more! I have small nipples that can flatten out when breasts become full. It was making it difficult to get a deep latch and I ended up with cracked bleeding nipples and milk blisters (yay!)
I think the shields give more of a target for her to latch, but they are becoming annoying, as feeding in public isn't practical, and she pulls at them pulling them off..lots of faff.

So my problem is now, how do I get her back on to naked breast without more nipple shredding, given my boobs are still becoming quite full before feeds. Especially in the morning and sometimes at night.

She's gotten used to the shields now, so struggles to feed without them now when I do try. Nice wide mouth going on but doesn't draw the nipple in, just falls back off again.

Advice, previous experience very welcome!

[youlemming]

I'm not an expert but did use them for a bit of relief with both DDs.
Could try starting the feed with them which helps the initial latch and draw the nipple out then part way through unlatch remove the shields and see if she will latch back on.
If it works you could lessen the time gradually and hopefully get to the point of not starting with them at all.

[knaffedoff]

I would encourage you to find a breastfeeding group locally, getting rid of the shield won't be difficult if you get a good and effective pain free latch. Good luck and congratulations on your new baby x

[Kreeshsheesh]

I'm not sure this is entirely helpful but just to say I fed both dc only using nipple shields until they were nearly 2! That included in public places as well. Like you described, my dd couldn't draw the nipple out (even when starting with the shield). The advice about going to a bf group or contacting a bf counsellor is good. I owe so much to the lovely woman who helped me with my dd. I'd have abandoned bf altogether without her support and encouragement. Good luck op!

[JenniferAnistonsHair]

Lansinoh...& lots of it!! Works to soothe, but it also acts like a bit of a barrier, so protects as well. I also found that as their mouths got bigger, they found it easier to feed & know what to do. Good luck...

[Needle]

Could you express a little before a feed to draw them out and soften the nipples a little? That works for me in the first weeks when my boobs fill up like Lolo Ferrari's. It wouldn't work when you're out, but I find that a big express first thing in the morning tends to prevent them getting too hard for the rest of the day.

I hope you find a solution; I'm nursing horribly mangled nipples atm as dc4 is struggling to latch nicely, so I fully sympathise.

[Twinwife]

I was recommend to try reverse pressure softening to try and help
Latching on when my breasts are full , have a look at you tube , good luck

[SnackPlease]

There is a thing called Lansinoh Latch Assist. I haven't used it myself but it's designed to drawing out the nipple prior to feeding to enable a better latch. I know a couple of people who have tried and had success with it. Maybe give that a bash?

Hope it gets easier for you soon (you sound like you're doing amazingly BTW). I absolutely second the suggestions re breastfeeding group / peer supporter too.

[Sleepybunny]

Thanks all for the great advice. I've tried expressing before a feed, that does work well, I just cannot be bothered hooking myself up to the pump at night.
DD2s mouth is small and she can be lazy when it comes to opening it wide enough for a good latch. She also fusses at times and pulls on and off frequently which kills me!!

I'll definitely get along to see a councilor. With Christmas and the bad weather, it's not been easy to get support.