Do nipple shields cause babies to swallow more air?

Understanding Nipple Shields and Air Intake in Babies
Nipple shields are devices designed to assist breastfeeding mothers, particularly in situations where a baby struggles to latch properly. While they can be beneficial in certain circumstances, there are concerns regarding their impact on a baby’s feeding experience, particularly whether they cause infants to swallow more air during breastfeeding.
The Mechanism of Nipple Shields
Nipple shields are typically made of soft silicone and are placed over the nipple to create a more favorable shape for the baby to latch onto. They are often recommended for mothers with flat or inverted nipples, or for babies who are premature or have difficulty latching due to weak mouth muscles. However, experts caution that nipple shields should be used sparingly and only when necessary, as prolonged use can lead to complications.
Air Swallowing and Gas Issues
One of the primary concerns raised by parents and caregivers is whether using a nipple shield leads to increased air swallowing by the baby. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that babies using nipple shields may indeed swallow more air, which can contribute to gas and discomfort. This is particularly noted in cases where the baby is not able to achieve a proper latch, leading to inefficient feeding and increased air intake.
When a baby latches onto a nipple shield, the design may not allow for the same level of suction and seal that a direct latch would provide. This can result in gaps where air can enter the baby’s mouth, especially if the baby is sucking vigorously but not effectively extracting milk. Consequently, this air can lead to gassiness and frequent hunger cues, as the baby may not be getting enough milk during each feeding session.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Experts recommend that while nipple shields can be a useful tool, they should be used with caution. The goal should always be to transition the baby back to direct breastfeeding as soon as possible to minimize potential issues, including air swallowing. Additionally, proper positioning and ensuring a good latch can help reduce the likelihood of air intake, even when using a shield.
In summary, while nipple shields can assist in breastfeeding, they may inadvertently lead to increased air swallowing in some infants. Parents are encouraged to monitor their baby’s feeding patterns and consult with lactation specialists to ensure that the use of nipple shields is appropriate and effective for their specific situation.

What are the side effects of nipple shields?

What are the risks of using a nipple shield?

• It’s difficult to wean a baby from 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.

What is the side effect of nipple cover?

Nipple covers can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions due to their adhesive materials if you have sensitive skin or wear them for a prolonged period. They also require proper maintenance and cleaning to ensure hygiene.

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.

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.

Are babies more efficient without nipple shield?

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.

Why do midwives not recommend nipple shields?

Nipple shields can interfere with your baby’s breastfeeds, reducing the amount of milk she can take from your breast. If your baby isn’t in direct contact with your breast, she can’t suck from it efficiently.

What is the disadvantage of nipple cover?

The cons of misusing a nipple shield can be; May contribute to low milk production after long periods of use. This is because decreased nipple stimulation has negative effects on milk-making hormones, such as prolactin and oxytocin.

Does air in bottle nipple cause gas?

Choose the right bottle nipple
For example, a nipple for a newborn has a slow flow, while a nipple for an older baby flows more quickly. If your baby has outgrown their nipple size, they might be sucking in a lot of air with their formula. And extra air means a higher chance of having painful gas.

Why is my baby swallowing so much air while breastfeeding?

Make sure your baby has a good latch so he doesn’t swallow too much air. Burp him throughout the feedings to help get rid of the gas. Try not to let your baby overfeed or feed too quickly. Keep track of when your baby is gassy and look back at your diet.

Do babies swallow more air with nipple shield?

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.