I need some help and advice - my bub won't attach

Hello all!
Baby Asher is 5 weeks old and we are having a few issues with BF. I have been using nipple shields since birth as he wouldn't attach in hospital - I have had Breast Augmentation with my left side nipple being completely removed and resized. This side, suprisingly is the one that produces the most milk! - go figure. The right side however, is a nice shaped nipple ready for suckling - but he just won't latch, and it ends in tears from both of us which is very distressing. The left side is soooo painful and im assuming it has something to do with the op. So i've been expressing when i can and using the nipple shields though im so keen to not use them as i was told you lose 20% of your milk using them - and he hasnt gained much weight since leaving hosp. I just want to give my baby as much milk as possible so he grows nice and strong, but i feel as though im not. It's so disheartening having him cry when i know he's still so hungry after ive fed him for and hour or 2. I'd feed him all day if i could, if only he was getting enough or latching. I will not succumb to Formula though. Unless my milk completely vanishes, i will not do this. So, does anybody have some advice? Ive been reading the success stories and they are great uplifters.
Thanks for reading xx : )

Have you tried different positions. At first I found the twin position quite good. I also used to lay a pillow across my lap and DS would comfortable lay across the pillow - it was also comfy for me too.

Good luck and big hugs.

Tahnee
I have discovered that it is common for babies to prefer one side to the other. Poppy also prefers the side that looks like it would be hardest to latch on to.

I fed Bubble with nipple shields until i stopped bfeeding her and she definately did not go hungry. She grew slower than average for the first 6 months or so but is all caught up now and very chubby ;)

How much did bub weigh born and how much does he weigh now?

Tahnee, it sounds as though you have had a very difficult time. Good on you for bfing for 5 weeks already despite all your problems. You are doing such an amazing job.

It is very hard to know exactly what is going on from your post, but a few things spring to mind. Firstly, nipple shields do not necessarily reduce supply. It also sounds as though your little man might not be attaching correctly all the time and therefore might not be getting enough of your milk, even though you have plenty.

I would strongly recommend that you find a good LC to watch you feed. She would able to tell you much better what is going on. There are some good ones here in Brissy - if you go to the ACLA site you can find some there. This does cost money, but is cheaper in the long run than buying formula and is a better option all round.

In the meantime, the ABA have a 24 hour toll-free helpline for all mums in Australia - 1800 mum 2 mum. The counsellors who answer the calls are all mums themselves and will be able to ask you some questions to help you work through what might be going on and what to do about it. I strongly recommend you give them a call - why not do it right now and then post again to let us know how you went?

You have the most important thing you need for bfing going for you - determination! I am sure that you will succeed hun. Good on you for seeking the information and support to continue. That is a really important thing to do.

I hope to hear a positive update from you shortly!

to the wondeful ladies who replied to my post with all their helpful tips and encouragement,
thank u so much! after that rather yukky and difficult time, i think we are finally getting there!!!the pain is subsiding and bub seems to be attaching better - little darlin..so, i will continue with my journey and keep all posted
xxxx:D:D:D happy mumma and full of milk bubba