I would agree that this is an effective product. One thing I learned the hard way is that this will take time and patience. A lot of reviews complained that it's impossibly painful, but I wonder if that's due to overuse; people have to understand that although results won't happen overnight. At first, I was using it every night and pulling the plunger thing all the way. A lot of women might do this. It does hurt, but easy does it!
I also realized that if I 1) didn't want to be sore every single day while I'm "treating" flat nipples, and 2) I didn't want the father of my child to watch me cringe whenever we're intimate, I needed a less painful schedule that still produced results. I began using it every other day, pulling the plunger just until I feel pressure. Having tender/sore breasts is part of pregnancy, hence the reason for wearing a bra at nighttime if desired. That's a good thing because the bra not only hides this ingenious contraption, but also helps hold it in place overnight. I'm seeing results indefinitely, and I've only been using it for just over a month!!
With that said, the moral of the story is:
*patience IS a virtue*, and essential when using this product. You don't need to overkill on using it in order to see results. It can be done without putting yourself through so much unnecessary excruciating pain. Also, yes, it will cause your nipples to be a little sore. You're exposing skin that hasn't seen the light of day, well, ever. When using this as directed, you slowly increase the pressure by pulling the plunger a little more. How often/much? That depends on you and your body type. I use mine about 3 days per week (every other day), and I'm up to feeling comfortable to pull the plunger to the halfway point. (Note: once your nipple fills the cup to the end and the pain, sensitivity and pressure is gone, you've effectively resolved the problem).
I don't recommend using this in the third trimester, though and neither does my doctor. You already have to deal with Braxton-Hicks (for those of you who don't know: false contractions that your body does to 'practice' getting ready for labor).
Wrapping it up: this product is amazing! It's worth every penny! I highly recommend this to any women needing to correct/improve flat or inverted nipples. I'm confident in being able to properly breastfeed my second baby without the pressure from hospital staff and devastation of not having the chance to provide for my daughter in that way. It also broke my heart that I was unable to bond with her on that level. La Lechè league is also a valuable resource that will assist you in becoming a super pro when it comes to any breastfeeding problem (including letdown, proper latching for smoother feedings, etc).
Between using this product (endorsed by LA Lechè league), and their support, I'm looking forward to the opportunity to have a strong breastfeeding routine with my baby when he/she is born.
One more thing: I read a few reviews on the plastic being too hard as well as having problems keeping them in place. First of all, there are NO sharp edges, but it may feel that way if you're pulling the plunger too hard, which will results in pain. As for them not staying in place, this is resolved a very simple way (and listed in the directions): use Lanolin, Aquaphor (that's what I use), Vaseline or other product with care. It does keep tender skin soft and soothes during "treatment", but if you use too much, suction is impossible. It doesn't matter what form moisturizer used to help keep these in place, a little goes a very long way!
| Product Dimensions | 3 x 1 x 3 inches |
|---|---|
| Item model number | SCF152/02 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Material Type | BPA Free |
| Number Of Items | 1 |
| Style | Niplettes |
| Best uses | Inverted nipples or flat nipples - breastfeeding mothers |
| Batteries required | No |
| Is portable | No |
| Item Weight | 2.39 ounces |
