Using a Nipple Shield
Information for breastfeeding families
Nipple shields have a mixed reputation. Some say they cause more problems than they solve. Others say that used properly they can salvage a difficult breastfeeding situation. Your lactation consultant will recommend when they may be helpful, how long to use them, and how to discontinue using them.
Indications for use
- Flat or inverted nipples
- Premature or late pre-term infants
- Tongue tie
- Down syndrome or other low-tone babies
- Sore, cracked bleeding nipples
- Slow down and regulate flow from over-active let-down
- Wean a baby from bottle to breast
The pros:
- Encourages your baby to feed at the breast
- Allows a weak baby to maintain suction at the breast
The cons:
- Barrier between you and your baby
- Your baby may get used to the shield
- Too easily used incorrectly
Choosing Your Shield
- Ask your lactation consultant to fit you for the correct size
- Experiment with the two types, to see which works best for you:
How to use the shield
- Roll the shield back about½ way down the shank of the shield
- Apply to nipple, may apply lanolin, breastmilk, KY jelly or water to help the shield adhere to the breast
- Roll the shield back onto the breast so the nipple is pulled into the shank of the shield. May stretch shield to accommodate the nipple
- May warm in water to make more flexible
- Latch the infant on by tipping baby’s head back, touch the shield above the upper lip and allow baby to take it deeply
- Ensure the infant’s lips are at the base on the shield, not slipping back and forth
- May pre-fill the shield through the holes in the tip with a periodontal syringe so the baby gets an instant reward
- Wash the shield and air dry, may be boiled if desired
- Plan for lactation follow up to either wean from the shield or work on maintaining/establishing supply
- Have your baby’s weight checked often
- To wean from the shield, start the feeding with the shield in place, then remove. If not successful, try again the next feeding. Coax your baby, and be persistent
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