Do nipple shields cause gas in babies?

Understanding Nipple Shields and Their Impact on Gas in Babies
Nipple shields are specialized devices designed to assist breastfeeding mothers, particularly those facing challenges such as flat nipples or latching difficulties. While they can be beneficial in certain situations, concerns have arisen regarding their potential to cause gas in infants.
The Mechanism of Gas Formation in Babies
Gas in babies typically occurs when they swallow excess air during feedings. This can lead to discomfort, fussiness, and disrupted sleep patterns. According to experts, the use of nipple shields can influence how much air a baby ingests while breastfeeding. When used correctly, nipple shields are not commonly associated with increased gas production in nursing babies. However, improper use can lead to complications.
Correct Usage is Key
The effectiveness of nipple shields largely depends on their proper placement and sizing. If a nipple shield is incorrectly positioned or not the right size for the mother’s anatomy, it can cause the baby to suck in more air than usual. This can result in increased gas and discomfort. For instance, a mother reported that her baby became gassy and fussy while using a nipple shield, attributing the issue to the baby sucking in too much air.
Expert Recommendations
Experts recommend that nipple shields should be used only when necessary and for the shortest duration possible. They are particularly helpful for premature infants or those with specific oral issues, but reliance on them should be minimized. The International Breastfeeding Centre emphasizes that while nipple shields can provide temporary relief, they are not a long-term solution for breastfeeding challenges.
Conclusion
In summary, while nipple shields can be a useful tool for breastfeeding mothers, their potential to cause gas in babies is closely tied to how they are used. Proper placement and sizing are crucial to minimizing air intake during feedings. If a mother notices increased gas in her baby while using a nipple shield, it may be worth consulting a lactation expert to explore alternative solutions or adjustments.

Does nipple shield make baby gassy?

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.

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.

Why is my breastfed baby so gassy at night?

At nighttime, there’s less movement and the gas can build up and get trapped. Additionally, babies tend to feed close to bedtime, and air introduced during this feed can become trapped. Also, our digestive systems are still very active at night and the results of digestion can be… gas!

Do babies feed longer with nipple shield?

Milk can take longer to flow from the breast when a nipple shield is used so feeding may take longer. To ensure breasts are well drained it may be necessary to express for a few minutes after feeds.

How long is too long to use a nipple shield?

Nipple shields are designed to be used for as short a period as possible as you and baby develop your expertise in breastfeeding, they may no longer be necessary. If your baby is gaining weight appropriately then there is no rush to wean from the shield. Continue to access breast-feeding support services as needed.

Do nipple shields cause babies 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.

Why are nipple shields not recommended?

The thin silicon cover can reduce the signals your body needs to make milk. This can lead to reduced milk supply and your baby not gaining enough weight. Other risks with nipple shields include: blocked ducts, breast abscess and mastitis.

Are there any side effects of using nipple shield?

Risks / Benefits
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.

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.

Why are nipple shields controversial?

The use of nipple shields is a controversial topic in the field of lactation. Its use has been an issue in the clinical literature since some older studies discovered reduced breast milk transfer when using nipple shields, while more recent studies reported successful breastfeeding outcomes.