Big mouth and dummy sucking

Saw a LC yesterday to help get of the shields. Dd did a great job this morning and didn't complain too much about no shields. However, I seem to be struggling to get her to open her mouth enough. I point the nipple up, brush down her mouth and she does open, but it seems as soon as she starts getting some flesh in her mouth she closes it smaller like she would take the shield. Any tips on what I can try? The LC said I'll just have to keep trying...

Also, on the shield she used to "dummy suck" for comfort at the end of the feed. I'm not letting her now because I don't want to damage my nipples more. She cracks it though. Is it worth introducing a dummy? TBH I miss that closeness when she does it because she is using me for comfort. Just don't want my nipples to go back to how they were! :o

Hi,

for babies, sucking is about food and comfort pretty much in equal measure. Just take it slowly. If your baby is positioned properly it is unlikely she will damage your nipples. It is normal to be a bit afraid of her hurting you - but she's not the tiny little L-plater she once was. She's a lot bigger and has got the hang of it! It probably will look different without the shield, but if it's comfortable it's OK

Can't add much to what Barb has said other than I am so glad to read this, little O! She's getting there! And so are you! :hug: You can do it.