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Nipple Shields as a Short-Term Nursing AidHelping Mothers Breastfeed Through Latching IssuesNipple shields can be a good short-term option for nursing mothers whose infants have early latching issues, and can allow a mother to breastfeed despite problems.
Breastfeeding is a natural way of providing nourishment to a newborn baby. It is important to remember however that natural does not always mean easy. Babies and mothers may struggle with the nursing process and without help mothers may give up on trying to nurse altogether. Nipple shields may help when a newborn initially has trouble latching onto his or her mother's breast and though they should not be used long-term, nipple shields can help make the beginning of the breastfeeding experience easier. There are a number of steps that can be taken to ensure that the need for a nipple shield is not permanent or even to help eliminate the need for its use at all. Breastfeed Shortly After DeliveryMost babies will latch onto a mother's nipple right away, if they are given the chance shortly after birth. Sucking is an instinct and will happen naturally without interference as long as the nipple is of normal shape and size. If the mother and baby are both healthy enough, the mother should put the baby to her breast when the doctor or nurse puts her child into her arms. The greater the length of time between birth and feeding, the greater the chance that latching will be more difficult. There are cases when either the mother or child are not healthy enough for nursing to take place right away. This does not mean that breastfeeding is hopeless, as babies can learn to nurse even after a great gap in time between birth and feeding. If a hospital nurse or lactation consultant notices the baby having trouble latching, he or she will usually offer a nipple shield as an aid and a mother should not be ashamed to take it. Ask Hospital Staff not to Give Baby a BottleIf a breastfed baby is provided a bottle of formula or sugar water in the hospital nursery he may be less willing to nurse from a bare breast. Some babies experience nipple confusion and will not want to latch because they have been introduced to an artificial nipple. If this is the case, a nipple shield will be helpful because the child will get the artificial nipple sensation and still get breast milk. It is best however if an artificial nipple is not introduced at all, preventing the need for assistance. Start with the Shield and End NaturallySome babies who need to start nursing with a shield will be able to nurse without one once milk starts flowing. Mothers who need to use a shield should begin the nursing session with the thin silicone device on and once the baby starts eating they should try and take it off and let the baby try and latch naturally. Empty Breasts After FeedingWhen nipple shields are used, breasts may not be completely emptied as they would be if the baby were nursing straight from the breast itself. Mothers should express leftover milk manually or with the help of a breast pump after feedings. This will ensure that the mother's milk supply stays up and prevent engorgement and breast infections. Most importantly nursing mothers who require a nipple shield should have patience. With time, the baby will eventually be able to nurse without the assistive device. Mothers can feel good about themselves because they know they are giving their baby the best nutrition possible even if they need a little help to do it.
The copyright of the article Nipple Shields as a Short-Term Nursing Aid in Breastfeeding is owned by Julie King. Permission to republish Nipple Shields as a Short-Term Nursing Aid in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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