When my baby was two months old, our breastfeeding journey took an unexpected turn. My little one had been diagnosed with reflux, and the doctor recommended switching to bottle feeding to alleviate the discomfort so that we were able to control her milk intake. It was a challenging decision, but it was the right one for my baby’s health at the time. However, as the reflux improved, I was determined to return to breastfeeding. What we didn’t anticipate was the uphill battle we would face when trying to transition back to breastfeeding. The nipple shield became my lifeline in this journey.
Reflux Diagnosis: My baby’s constant discomfort led us to the pediatrician, who diagnosed her with reflux. The doctor suggested bottle-feeding to help manage the condition and prevent further irritation of the esophagus.
Making a Hard Decision: Transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding was emotionally tough. I cherished the bond we shared during breastfeeding and felt a sense of loss and disappointment with myself when it was temporarily put on hold.
Introduction of the Nipple Shield: When my baby was almost five months old, we started using The Upseat (which is really cool because it was developed with Physical Therapists and designed to help with hip and posture development unlike other “popular” seats on the market) , which allowed her to sit up. We noticed that her reflux symptoms improved with time and decided to reintroduce breastfeeding. As we gradually weaned off the bottle and introduced my breast to my baby, I was met with a surprising challenge. She seemed to resist latching onto the breast. This rejection and guilt hit me like a ton of bricks. I didn’t know what else to do. I know we made the decision because it was something that she needed at the time but this made me feel like a failure not to mention my hormones were still raging postpartum. A friend of ours had recommended that we try using the nipple shield. This was a GAME CHANGER!
Patience and Perseverance: We began with the nipple shield, but it wasn’t an instant success. There were MANY failed attempts and many tears shed. I realized then that this was going to take time for both my baby and me to relearn the breastfeeding dance. I had to learn to give myself some grace.
Latching with the Nipple Shield: The Nipple Shield was a game-changer. The rubbery material resembles that of a bottle nipple, which I believe made it easier for my baby to latch on to the breast. The thin, soft silicone shield provided the comfort she needed during feedings while giving me a much needed boost of confidence.
Gradual Progress, Weaning, and Success: The first step for us was going to be getting her to latch consistently with the use of the nipple shield. Every successful breastfeeding session with the Nipple Shield felt like a victory. As my baby became more comfortable with breastfeeding, we gradually weaned off the nipple shield. I would start nursing sessions with the nipple shield and then after a minute, or when it felt right, I would remove the nipple shield and have her latch on without it AND IT WORKED! I couldn’t believe the first time we did it, I couldn’t help but tear up. It was a slow and steady process but the outcome was magical.
Our journey, just like all Mamas’ was marked by challenges, but it also showcased the resilience of the mother-baby bond. The Nipple Shield was an essential tool that allowed this mama to thrive, and I am so grateful it was an option for us. -If you would like to purchase the nipple shield I used Click Here.
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