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Nipple Shields: Pros and Cons
Author: Heather Montgomery
Nipple shields have been around since the 1500’s. They were made from wood, iron, wax, and other raw materials. Today, most nipple shields are made of silicon, rubber, or latex. Nipple shields are recommended to many mothers who have sore nipples, have nipples larger than their baby’s mouth, and flat or inverted nipples. While nipple shields can help some mother’s breastfeed their babies, there are some cons associated with the use of a nipple shield.
How They Work
A nipple shield fits over the mother’s nipple, and the baby sucks on the shield instead of the actual nipple. The sucking draws out the nipple, and the milk flows through the holes in the shield. To avoid dependence on the shield, remove it after the nipple has been drawn out and place the baby directly on the mother’s nipple.
Pros
A nipple shield may help build confidence, for both baby and mother. They can also reduce frustration and pain for the mother. Nipple shields can help draw out a flat or inverted nipple when used at the beginning of a feeding – after a few sucks, the mother can remove the shield and feed the baby just on the breast.
Cons
Nipple shields can lessen the amount of milk the baby gets; they also can reduce milk supply if the baby is not getting as much milk as they would from the straight breast. The mother may also be at an increased risk of getting clogged ducts, or mastitis. Using a nipple shield before exhausting all other techniques can affect the baby’s ability to transfer to a bare breast, making breastfeeding almost impossible. Consequently, weaning the baby off the shield can be difficult.
There are many resources for a breastfeeding mother. Check your local, area groups that support and teach the best way to create a lasting, enjoyable breastfeeding experience.
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