I have short nipples. Will the use of a nipple shield help elongate my nipples ?

I've read that many experts think that nothing needs to be done if you have flat and inverted nipples as most of the time, they perform their job as well as "normal' nipples once breastfeeding begins. But if you do need that extra help, breast shields can assist in breastfeeding but I don't know if it will help elongate them in the long run. My friends told me that drawing out the nipples with a breast pump immediately before nursing helps. Pump a few times and give baby the nipple before milk starts flowing out. Again, this method will help draw the nipple out a little bit more but I am unsure if prolonged usage will elongate the nipples per se.

I've read that many experts think that nothing needs to be done if you have flat and inverted nipples as most of the time, they perform their job as well as "normal' nipples once breastfeeding begins. But if you do need that extra help, breast shields can assist in breastfeeding but I don't know if it will help elongate them in the long run. My friends told me that drawing out the nipples with a breast pump immediately before nursing helps. Pump a few times and give baby the nipple before milk starts flowing out. Again, this method will help draw the nipple out a little bit more but I am unsure if prolonged usage will elongate the nipples per se.

You can try this breastfeeding position (the clutch): http://www.babycenter.com/0_positions-and-tips-for-making-breastfeeding-work_8784.bc#articlesection3 Worked for one of my friends with flat nipples. You can also try getting a shield but I think when getting a shield, it is important to find one that fits. You can check with a lactation consultant for some professional inputs. Here's an article that you may find helpful: http://sg.theasianparent.com/nipple-shape-and-breastfeeding/ Also, you can join the support group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/sgbreastfeedingmums/) mentioned in the article.

You can try this breastfeeding position (the clutch): http://www.babycenter.com/0_positions-and-tips-for-making-breastfeeding-work_8784.bc#articlesection3 Worked for one of my friends with flat nipples. You can also try getting a shield but I think when getting a shield, it is important to find one that fits. You can check with a lactation consultant for some professional inputs. Here's an article that you may find helpful: http://sg.theasianparent.com/nipple-shape-and-breastfeeding/ Also, you can join the support group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/sgbreastfeedingmums/) mentioned in the article.