Nipple shields for breastfeeding are an excellent solution for breastfeeding mothers who are having difficulty getting their baby to latch or if their nipples are hurting. However, nipple shields should be used in conjunction with other breastfeeding help tools and it is important to know when and how to use them correctly to avoid damage or to keep milk flowing.
A nipple shield is a piece of cloth or plastic that covers the nipples during breastfeeding. It is usually a round shape that covers the nipple and areola completely. However, some nipple shields have ‘cut-outs’ in them that can allow for more skin contact between mother and baby during breastfeeding. It can also be made with different lengths to cover varying sizes of nipples and may have a ‘hook’ on the top or bottom to aid in hanging onto the breast. Some nipple shields are designed to be positioned so that the cut-out is lined up with baby’s nose or chin to help with nipple stimulation. However, some lactation consultants recommend turning the shield around so that the cut-out is alongside baby’s lower jaw to facilitate more suction and suckling.
When a nipple shield is used properly, it should be applied to the breast and then the nipples should be drawn into the cone-shaped area of the shield. The shield should not be so tight that it is restrictive but should fit snugly. It can help if the nipple shield is wet or covered in breast milk beforehand to help it stick better to the nipple and to minimize chafing (which can make it painful to nurse).
It’s important to remember that while a nipple shield can be helpful for some nursing mothers, it cannot fix any underlying issues such as low supply of milk or a damaged nipple. It is still important to try to latch without the shield and, if necessary, continue to pump and feed the infant with a bottle while working on improving the nipple latch.
Some breastfeeding mothers will need to use a nipple shield for a long period of time, while others will use it only briefly. The decision to use one should be taken carefully and after consulting with an IBCLC. The consultant will be able to observe the latch and positioning of the baby and can help determine if a nipple shield is truly necessary. In most cases, if the shield is needed, it can be weaned off after a few weeks of use if the baby’s cues are followed and proper technique is practiced. It is often easier to wean from a nipple shield if the baby has been fed well and has the expected number of wet and dirty diapers. If the milk supply has not decreased, it is often more difficult to wean the shield off because the baby is no longer getting enough of the milk it’s intended for. A new breastfeeding mom should always check the baby’s mouth, tongue, and nipple for signs that they are not latching or getting enough of the milk.