Hi Girls

Just a question about nipple shields.

DS2 was born at 36 weeks & we had a few issues over the first 24-48yrs with attachment.

For the first 24hrs, I expressed & we used a syringe to feed him (I had a long period inbetween birth and holding him to the breast) - I had a c/s but from past issues, my Dr had to do a lot of work once he had me open & baby out, so I was in getting 'fixed'a lot longer than the usual time inbetween birth & recovery.

So as a result, we had a few issues with attachment, but managed to get it sorted by using the shield on day 2 - by day 3 he was perfect, and the lactation consultant said there were no concerns.

I asked how long I could leave it before I started trying to not use the shield - she said to try each feed but not to put too much pressure on ourselves, it would come eventually.

He is now 3 weeks old - feeds completely fine on the left side without the use of the shield, but I cannot get him to feed from the right side without it

From what I can see, there's no difference in my nipples from one side to the next - I'm alternating breasts so when I'm trying him on the right side hes not starving (hoping he has more patience to try without the shield?!)

Each time I try, he will lick the nipple (enough for let down, and then resulting in milk all over his face ) - he has a minimal attempt at putting the nipple inside his mouth, but shakes his head & cries before really even trying if that makes sense?!

Is there anything else I can try other than perservering?
Both the paedeatrician & the lactation consultant at the hospital said to try but not to put too much pressure on time etc - its not so much that I'm still using the shield, just my concern that he has absolutely no issues with one side, but just refuses the other unless the shield is on.

I considered making an appointment to see a lactation consultant so she can inspect my nipples (and can maybe see a difference between them that I can't!)

Do you think its worth making the appointment now, or just trying for a little longer?

Thanks in advance