How to Use Nipple Shields While Breastfeeding

Why Nipple Shields Might Be Your Breastfeeding Solution

The joys of breastfeeding can sometimes be overshadowed by challenges. Maybe you’ve experienced pain while feeding, perhaps your baby struggles with latching, or maybe your nipples are flat or inverted, making breastfeeding difficult. This is where nipple shields come in— a thin, flexible silicone device that covers the nipple and provides a more accessible surface for your baby to latch onto.

Nipple shields aren’t meant for long-term use but are excellent for troubleshooting early breastfeeding difficulties. Many mothers find relief in using them temporarily, especially during the crucial first few weeks postpartum. However, improper use of nipple shields can lead to further complications, such as reduced milk transfer and supply issues.

In the next sections, we will cover all aspects of using nipple shields so you can maximize their benefits and avoid common pitfalls.

What Exactly is a Nipple Shield?

A nipple shield is a thin piece of silicone that fits over your nipple during breastfeeding. It helps your baby latch, particularly in cases where you face any of the following issues:

1. Nipple pain or soreness: If your nipples are cracked or sore from breastfeeding, a nipple shield can protect them while you continue nursing.

2. Flat or inverted nipples: Some mothers have flat or inverted nipples, making it difficult for babies to latch. A nipple shield can help create a firm surface that encourages better latching.

3. Latch issues: Babies who are premature or have trouble latching can benefit from the more structured surface of a nipple shield.

4. Weaning from a bottle: Babies used to feeding from a bottle may struggle to latch directly to the breast. A nipple shield can mimic the shape of a bottle nipple and ease the transition to breastfeeding.

How to Properly Use a Nipple Shield

Using a nipple shield correctly is key to ensuring it serves its purpose without leading to other issues like low milk supply. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide:

1. Choosing the Right Size

Nipple shields come in various sizes (generally small, medium, and large), so selecting the right size is important. Your nipple should fit comfortably into the shield's opening without being pinched or compressed. Many lactation consultants can help with proper sizing to avoid future problems.

2. Prepping the Shield

Before you place the nipple shield on your breast, you’ll want to make sure it’s clean and sterile. You can sterilize it in boiling water or a steam sterilizer. You may also want to dampen the shield with a bit of warm water or breast milk to encourage a better suction to your skin.

3. Attaching the Shield

To position the nipple shield correctly:

• Center the shield over your nipple.
• Pull out your nipple slightly to fill the shield.
• Once it’s aligned, apply gentle pressure to create suction, ensuring the shield stays in place.
• Make sure the shield is flush against your breast so that your baby gets a good latch.

4. Positioning Your Baby

Get into a comfortable breastfeeding position, similar to how you would nurse without the shield. Encourage your baby to open their mouth wide, and guide them toward the shield-covered nipple. Allow them to latch onto both the nipple and the surrounding areola.

5. Monitor Milk Transfer

Make sure your baby is swallowing milk, which indicates that milk is flowing through the shield. Sometimes shields can obstruct milk flow if improperly fitted, so it's essential to listen for gulping sounds or watch for milk pooling in the nipple shield.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overusing Nipple Shields:
While nipple shields can provide immediate relief, they are not a long-term solution. Overuse can reduce your baby’s ability to latch directly onto the breast and might interfere with milk supply if the milk transfer isn't optimal.

2. Using the Wrong Size Shield:
An ill-fitting shield can compress the nipple, causing pain and preventing milk flow, which in turn can lead to lower milk supply. Always consult a lactation consultant to ensure the right size.

3. Improper Attachment:
If the shield isn’t attached properly, it can slide around during feeding, disrupting your baby’s latch and milk transfer.

4. Neglecting Breast Care:
Just because a shield protects your nipple doesn’t mean you can forgo nipple care. Continue to moisturize your nipples with lanolin or expressed breast milk and let them air dry after feeding to prevent cracks.

Signs That It’s Time to Wean Off the Nipple Shield

You’ll want to stop using the shield once breastfeeding issues (such as latch or soreness) have been resolved. Prolonged use can decrease milk transfer and may result in nipple confusion for your baby.

Here are some signs that it's time to transition:

• Your baby latches better: Once your baby can latch without assistance or discomfort, it’s a good indicator that the shield is no longer needed.

• Increased milk flow: Shields can inhibit the amount of milk your baby is getting. If your milk supply seems lower, consider weaning off the shield.

• Decreased nipple pain: If your nipples have healed and breastfeeding is no longer painful, try feeding without the shield to encourage your baby’s natural latch.

How to Wean Off the Nipple Shield

Weaning your baby from the nipple shield can take time and patience. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Start with One Feed a Day:
   Attempt to breastfeed without the shield for one feeding session a day. Choose a time when both you and your baby are calm and relaxed.

2. Alternate Between Shielded and Non-Shielded Feeds:
   If your baby is reluctant, alternate between using the shield and feeding without it during a session. This helps them slowly adjust to the texture and feel of your natural nipple.

3. Encourage Skin-to-Skin Contact:
   Skin-to-skin contact can help stimulate your baby’s natural reflexes and encourage breastfeeding without the shield.

4. Consult a Lactation Expert:
   If weaning proves difficult, a lactation consultant can provide tailored strategies to help you and your baby transition smoothly.

Maintaining Milk Supply While Using a Nipple Shield

A common concern for mothers using nipple shields is maintaining their milk supply. Since shields can sometimes interfere with milk transfer, it’s important to take the following steps:

• Pump After Feedings:
  To ensure that your milk supply stays up, consider pumping after feedings, especially if your baby isn’t draining your breasts completely.

• Frequent Feeding:
  Offer the breast frequently to stimulate milk production. Feeding on demand is always recommended, but it’s especially important when using nipple shields.

• Monitor Baby’s Weight Gain:
  Pay close attention to your baby’s weight gain and diaper output. If your baby is not gaining weight or seems unsatisfied after feeds, consult your pediatrician or a lactation expert.

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, nipple shields don’t solve the problem. If breastfeeding is still painful, your baby struggles to latch, or you notice a drop in milk supply, it’s time to seek professional advice. A lactation consultant can provide hands-on assistance, whether that’s finding a better fit for your shield or offering alternatives for your breastfeeding challenges.

Final Thoughts

Nipple shields can be an incredibly helpful tool when used correctly. They can ease the breastfeeding process for both mother and baby, especially in the early days when issues like latching or nipple pain are most prevalent. However, they are not a permanent fix. Understanding how to use them properly and when to transition away from them will help ensure a smooth breastfeeding journey, enabling you and your baby to establish a strong, healthy breastfeeding relationship.