How to Use a Supplemental Nursing System

A Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) is a great product for women that want to breastfeed but are struggling. It's designed so babies are getting breastmilk while suckling at the breast even if little to no milk is coming through the breast. The SNS is used by women who don't produce enough milk, whose milk has dried up or women who are trying to stimulate lactation.

Instructions

1

Talk to a lactation consultant before deciding a supplemental nursing system is necessary. She may have other suggestions for you. In addition, she can show you how to use the SNS effectively and when you can stop using it.

2

Breastfeed your baby first without using the SNS. After your baby empties your breasts or suckles for a certain amount of time, then use the SNS.

3

Put breastmilk in a bottle. If you're truly not producing any breastmilk, contact a human milk bank to purchase breastmilk. If you're desperate, use formula in the bottle.

4

Hang the bottle around your neck so it's placed between your breasts. Make sure it's comfortable; you may have it around your neck for thirty minutes or more. You can also place it into the pocket of a shirt.

5

Tape the tube from the supplemental nursing system to your breast so the end comes out at your nipple. Do not let it reach further than your nipple. You also may wait until your baby is latched onto the breast before slipping the tube into their mouth. The first few times, get help from your partner, a friend or your lactation consultant.

6

Place your baby on the breast, making sure your baby is properly latched and the tube is in their mouth. As your baby nurses at the breast, he gets breastmilk through the tube at the same time. Make sure you use proper latch and positioning so your baby can be weaned from the SNS as soon as possible.