What it is
A nipple shield is a thin silicone cover shaped like a nipple, with holes at the tip. It sits over your nipple during a feed. It is used when a baby cannot latch, often because of flat nipples, inverted nipples, a premature or sleepy baby, or a badly damaged nipple. 'Weaning off shield' is the search that comes a few weeks later.
What's typical
Shields come in sizes, usually 16 to 24mm. Most lactation consultants suggest using one as a bridge for days to weeks, with weight checks, because some babies move less milk through it. Many babies come off the shield between 2 and 8 weeks. Some mothers use one the whole time they nurse.
What's known
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and La Leche League describe shields as useful when fitted and followed up, and caution against handing them out without a plan. Modern thin shields move milk much better than the thick older ones did.
What helps
- Get the shield fitted by a lactation consultant, not off the shelf. Size and placement are most of the trick.
- Draw the nipple out before latching: a pump for a minute, cold, or rolling the nipple between fingers.
- To wean: start with the shield, slip it off mid-feed once milk is flowing.
When to call someone
- Todaydiaper counts drop or the baby is not gaining while on a shield.
- At your next visityou want help weaning off the shield, or the baby still cannot latch without it after 8 weeks.
Who helps
Tools: Feeding Prep · Birthworker Directory
Related
- Getting a deep latchFeeding Your Baby
- Nipple pain, cracks, and healingPostpartum: Your Body
- Tongue and lip tiesFeeding Your Baby
- Is my baby getting enough?Feeding Your Baby
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Sources
- La Leche League International — Nipple shields
- Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine — Clinical protocol 10: breastfeeding the late preterm and early term infant
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