A nipple shield is a flexible silicone device worn over the breast during breastfeeding. They are considered a short-term solution for feeding problems and should only be used under the guidance of a board-certified lactation consultant.
How to use a nipple shield
- Turn the shield partially “inside-out” before placing it on your breast. Then let it unfold, drawing the nipple into the shield.
- Dip the shield in warm water or apply drops of breast milk or water to the rim of the nipple shield to help it attach to the breast.
- Check the product insert for more information.
How to be successful
- Ensure a correct latch. Your baby needs to have their mouth open wide in a “yawn” position.
- Be evaluated by a trained lactation consultant. The consultant should evaluate your baby's latch onto your breast and ensure you are using the shield correctly.
- Look for milk in the tip of the shield and check for a decrease in breast fullness after each feeding.
- A decrease in fullness is a sign your baby is draining the breast.
- Check if your breast feels soft after nursing.
- If your breasts do not feel soft after nursing with a nipple shield, you may want to use a breast pump or hand express after breastfeeding to ensure the breasts are well drained.
- Use the correct size nipple shield.
- Check with a lactation consultant to make sure you are using the correct size.
- Follow up with a lactation consultant while using a nipple shield.
- If your baby’s weight gain is a concern, weekly weight checks may be recommended.
- The number of dirty and wet diapers is a good indicator that your baby is receiving enough breast milk. Infants should have four or more dirty diapers and six or more wet diapers daily by 5 days of age.
Cleaning
- Use hot soapy water and rinse with hot water after every use.
- Drain, dry and store in a clean, covered container.
Weaning from a nipple shield
Once your baby is feeding well, you may want to attempt breastfeeding without the nipple shield. Here are some weaning tips.
- After your baby has been nursing well for several minutes with a nipple shield, try removing it to see if the baby will then latch onto your bare breast.
- If, after removing the nipple shield, your baby will not latch onto your bare breast, replace the shield and continue using it throughout the rest of the feeding.
- Try again when your baby is more relaxed and you feel less stressed.