Do babies take longer to feed with a nipple shield?

Understanding Nipple Shields and Feeding Duration
Nipple shields are often employed by breastfeeding mothers facing various challenges, such as difficulty with latching or pain during feeding. These devices, typically made from soft silicone or plastic, cover the nipple and areola, creating a more manageable surface for the baby to latch onto. However, a common concern among parents is whether using a nipple shield prolongs feeding times for infants.
Feeding Time Dynamics with Nipple Shields
Research indicates that babies may indeed take longer to feed when using a nipple shield. One significant factor contributing to this extended feeding duration is the reduction in milk transfer efficiency associated with nipple shields. Studies have shown that certain types of nipple shields can decrease the amount of milk a baby receives during feeding. For instance, one study found that a specific nipple shield reduced milk intake by as much as 58% compared to breastfeeding without a shield. This diminished milk transfer can lead to longer feeding sessions as babies may need to suck longer to obtain the same amount of milk.
Moreover, the design of nipple shields can complicate the feeding process. While they can help with latching issues, they may also create a barrier that requires babies to exert more effort to extract milk. This additional effort can lead to increased feeding times, as infants may need to work harder to achieve a satisfactory feed.
Situational Factors and Recommendations
The impact of nipple shields on feeding duration can vary based on individual circumstances. For some babies, particularly those who are premature or have specific feeding difficulties, nipple shields can facilitate a better latch and ultimately improve feeding efficiency over time. In these cases, the initial longer feeding times may be offset by improved overall feeding success.
Experts recommend that if a nipple shield is used, mothers should aim to gradually reduce its use as the baby becomes more adept at breastfeeding. This can involve removing the shield partway through a feed or using it only when necessary. Such strategies can help transition the baby back to direct breastfeeding, potentially reducing overall feeding times in the long run.
Conclusion
In summary, while nipple shields can be beneficial for certain breastfeeding challenges, they may lead to longer feeding durations due to reduced milk transfer efficiency and the additional effort required by the baby. Parents considering the use of nipple shields should weigh these factors and consult with lactation experts to determine the best approach for their unique situation.

Why do lactation consultants hate nipple shields?

Infants tend to have a shallower latch when using the shield which may exacerbate the underlying issue. Nipple shields can lead to poor milk transfer and inadequate emptying of the breast which in turn decreases mom’s milk supply and may cause issues like plugged ducts and mastitis.

Do nipple shields cause gas in babies?

With the intervention of the plastic nipple shield, the baby very often does not remove milk from the breast as effectively as he should, which results in fussiness, swallowing of a lot of air, and colic.

Do nipple shields cause baby to swallow more air?

If there is an underlying latching problem, adding a shield on top can risk blocked ducts and mastitis, supply reduction, and a baby not getting enough milk. Feeds can end up being long and unsettled and baby may take in more air.

Does feeding with nipple shield take longer?

There are some drawbacks to using a nipple shield. I find that when shields are being used, the amount of time it takes a baby to breastfeed can increase. Sometimes the feeds aren’t always as efficient as there is a barrier between baby and the breast (this is why breast compression comes in handy).

How to get baby to latch deeper?

With your baby’s head tilted back and chin up, lift him or her to touch your nipple. The nipple should rest just above the baby’s upper lip. Wait for your baby to open very wide, then “scoop” the breast by placing the lower jaw on first. Now tip your baby’s head forward and place the upper jaw well behind your nipple.

Why are nipple shields discouraged?

Although nipple shields may be a useful tool in certain situations, they also may cause challenges. Nipple shields create a barrier, may exacerbate latch issues when mom attempts to go back to direct breastfeeding, and they can lead to poor milk transfer and decrease mom’s milk supply.

Do I always have to hold my breasts while breastfeeding?

First of all, because it is not needed. You also “lose” a useful hand by trying to keep your breast away from the baby’s nose. Furthermore, holding the breast during the feed could unintentionally cause the baby to latch on poorly (more on how to achieve a good latch here).

Do nipple shields make it harder for baby to get milk?

It was found that both nipple shields reduced milk transfer: the Mexican Hat decreased milk supply by 58%, with a mean volume of 19.5 g compared to a mean volume of 46.4 g without a shield, whereas the thin latex shield diminished milk intake by 22% from a mean volume of 38.4 g without a shield to 29.9 g.

What are the disadvantages of using nipple shields?

Some of the disadvantages of using a nipple shield are:

• It’s difficult to wean a baby from a nipple shield.
• Using a nipple shield limits skin-to-skin contact between you and your baby.
• Your baby may not transfer as much milk through a nipple shield as they would directly from your nipple.

Do babies nurse faster without a nipple shield?

Some babies will just learn that they can get milk quicker without the shield and learn to prefer the breast… This happened for us at a little over 3 months old, so it is possible! The truth is now that teeth are involved, parts of me miss that annoying shield.