Do lactation consultants recommend nipple shields?

Understanding Nipple Shields in Breastfeeding
Nipple shields are specialized devices designed to assist mothers during breastfeeding by covering the nipple. While they can be beneficial in certain situations, lactation consultants generally recommend their use with caution and for limited periods.
When Are Nipple Shields Recommended?
Lactation consultants often suggest nipple shields for specific breastfeeding challenges. For instance, if a baby is having difficulty latching properly, a nipple shield can provide a more favorable shape and texture, making it easier for the infant to latch and suckle effectively. This can be particularly helpful for mothers with flat or inverted nipples, as the shield can help stimulate the baby’s sucking reflex by providing stimulation to the roof of their mouth.
Moreover, nipple shields can serve as a temporary solution for mothers experiencing nipple pain due to improper latching. In such cases, lactation consultants may recommend using a shield to alleviate discomfort while working on improving the baby’s latch.
The Short-Term Solution
Experts emphasize that nipple shields should be viewed as a short-term tool rather than a long-term solution. They are most effective when used under the guidance of a lactation consultant, who can help identify the underlying issues causing breastfeeding difficulties and provide strategies to overcome them. The goal is to eventually transition away from the shield as both mother and baby become more comfortable with breastfeeding.
Potential Drawbacks
While nipple shields can be helpful, they are not without drawbacks. Prolonged use may lead to decreased milk supply or hinder the baby’s ability to effectively transfer milk from the breast. Therefore, lactation consultants typically advise using them only when necessary and for the shortest duration possible.
Additionally, some mothers may find that their babies become reliant on the shield, making it challenging to breastfeed without it later on. This is why close monitoring and support from a lactation consultant are crucial during the process.
Conclusion
In summary, lactation consultants do recommend nipple shields, but with specific caveats. They are a useful tool for addressing certain breastfeeding challenges, particularly in the early days of nursing. However, their use should be temporary, with a focus on resolving the underlying issues to promote a successful breastfeeding experience without reliance on the shield. Engaging with a lactation consultant can provide the necessary support and guidance to navigate these challenges effectively.

Are there any cons to using a nipple shield?

They may become too dependent on it. 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. This may lead to slow weight gain in your baby or low milk supply.

Do babies get more milk without a nipple shield?

All 34 infants consumed more milk with the shield than without, with a mean of 14.4 mL difference. The mean transfer of milk without a shield was 3.9 ± 7.0 mL, indicating poor milk transfer, compared to 18.4 ± 13.2 mL with the shield.

Do nipple shields affect milk supply?

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. This may lead to slow weight gain in your baby or low milk supply.

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.

Why aren’t nipple shields recommended?

Why shouldn’t all moms use a nipple shield? The thin silicone layer of the shield interferes with the normal sensory feedback between the baby and the breast. Many moms find their milk supply gradually decreases with the shield.

Why do lactation consultants not like nipple shields?

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).

What is the most likely reason for recommending a nipple shield?

Nipple shields are usually recommended to mothers for flat nipples or in cases in which there is a failure of the baby to effectively latch onto the breast within the first 2 days postpartum.

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.

Can nipple shields cause clogged milk ducts?

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.

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).