Hello everyone, I'm an RN for pregnancy and postpartum period and a lactation consultant. I also provide doula services for my patients. Todays topic is using nipple shields.
Using a nipple shield during breastfeeding can be a helpful tool for certain situations. Some reasons to consider using a nipple shield include:
1. Latch Difficulties: Nipple shields can assist infants who have difficulty latching onto the breast, making it easier for them to feed and establish a proper latch. It’s important to understand that most of the times we need a LC to check on the situation and to assess the issues to help the mother latch the baby on the breast without the need to use a silicone nipple shield.
2. Flat or Inverted Nipples: Mothers with flat or inverted nipples might find nipple shields beneficial in creating a more prominent and easier-to-latch surface for the baby.
3. Nipple Pain or Damage: If a mother experiences pain or nipple damage during breastfeeding, a nipple shield can act as a protective barrier, allowing the nipples to heal while still providing the baby with breast milk.
4. Transition from Bottle to Breast: Nipple shields can aid in transitioning a baby from bottle-feeding to breastfeeding, as the shield may feel more familiar to a baby used to artificial nipples.
However, it's essential to be aware of the potential disadvantages and considerations associated with nipple shield usage:
1. Reduced Milk Transfer: Nipple shields may affect the baby's ability to extract milk efficiently, leading to lower milk transfer. This can impact the baby's weight gain and the mother's milk supply.
2. Dependency: Prolonged use of nipple shields may create a dependency for both the baby and the mother, making it challenging to wean the baby off the shield.
3. Risk of Mastitis: Nipple shields can sometimes contribute to issues such as plugged ducts or mastitis due to decreased milk removal and potential changes in suction.
4. Inconsistent Suction: The baby's suction may not be as effective with a nipple shield, and this inconsistency might affect milk supply regulation.
To make the most of nipple shield usage, consider the following tips:
- Consult a Lactation Consultant: Seek guidance from a lactation consultant to ensure proper fit and usage of the nipple shield.
- Monitor Milk Supply: Keep a close eye on your milk supply and the baby's weight gain to address any concerns promptly.
- Wean Gradually: If using a nipple shield, work with a lactation consultant on a gradual weaning plan to encourage the baby to nurse directly.
- Address Underlying Issues: Identify and address any underlying issues contributing to latch problems, such as tongue-tie or positioning concerns.
Remember, while nipple shields can be a valuable tool in specific situations, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and baby.
There are some nipple shields that are better for use with your baby especially if you want to stop using the shield eventually and transition to chest feeding directly:
1.I love the Momozy nipple shield cause they are made of a thin silicone which provides more stimulation to mother's nipple and there are lots of sizings you can choose out - [ Ссылка ]
2. Medela 24mm - [ Ссылка ]
3. Lansinoh nipple shields, you can find in two sizes 20mm and 24mm - [ Ссылка ]
