Feeding With Nipple Shields
Nipple Shields can be a breastfeeding and nipple life saver! They are used in a difficult breastfeeding/latching situation.
They are used commonly used with premature infants, with flat or inverted nipples, for infant anatomical variations (like a high palate), sore nipples or weaning back to the breast with bottle use.
Generally nipples shields are reached for when there is a underlying issue that needs further investigating by a lactation consultant.
When using a shield it is important that the size is correct but even more important that milk transfer is effective. Milk supply can sometimes take a little longer to flow from the breast thus feeding can take a little longer- Even with a shield sometimes latching can still be uncomfortable which warrants further investigation.
Using a shield? Get some further support to make sure it is working well for you and your baby book here:
