How to stop using nipple shield while breastfeeding?

Understanding Nipple Shields
Nipple shields are often used by breastfeeding mothers to address various challenges, such as flat or inverted nipples, difficulty with latching, or to provide comfort during nursing. These devices, typically made of soft plastic or silicone, fit over the nipple and areola, allowing the baby to latch more easily. However, while they can be a helpful temporary solution, many mothers eventually seek to transition away from using them to promote a more natural breastfeeding experience.
Reasons for Transitioning Away from Nipple Shields
The decision to stop using a nipple shield can stem from several motivations. Mothers may wish to enhance their baby’s feeding efficiency, improve milk supply, or simply desire a more direct breastfeeding experience. As babies grow stronger and more adept at latching, the need for a shield may diminish. Additionally, prolonged use of a nipple shield can sometimes lead to issues such as decreased milk supply or reliance on the shield for feeding.
Steps to Stop Using a Nipple Shield
1. Consult a Lactation Expert: Before making any changes, it’s crucial to consult with a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist. They can assess your specific situation, identify any underlying issues, and provide tailored advice on transitioning away from the shield.
2. Gradual Removal: One effective strategy is to gradually reduce the use of the nipple shield. Start by removing the shield partway through a feeding session. This allows the baby to practice latching directly onto the breast while still having the comfort of the shield initially.
3. Increase Skin-to-Skin Contact: Enhancing skin-to-skin contact can significantly aid in the transition. Holding your baby close encourages them to use their natural instincts to latch onto the breast without the shield. This intimate contact not only fosters bonding but also helps the baby become more familiar with the breast.
4. Timing is Key: Offer the breast without the shield when your baby is calm and alert, such as right after waking from a nap. This can increase the likelihood of a successful latch.
5. Supportive Techniques: Employ techniques such as nipple massage or using a breast pump to draw out the nipple before feeding. This can help soften the areola and make it easier for the baby to latch directly.
6. Monitor Milk Supply: Keep an eye on your milk supply during this transition. If you notice a decrease, it may be beneficial to reduce the use of the shield further and explore other methods to boost milk production.
7. Patience and Persistence: Transitioning away from a nipple shield can take time and may require several attempts. It’s important to remain patient and persistent, as each baby is different and may need varying amounts of time to adjust.
Conclusion
While nipple shields can provide essential support during challenging breastfeeding periods, many mothers find it beneficial to transition away from them as their breastfeeding journey progresses. By consulting with lactation experts, gradually reducing reliance on the shield, and fostering a nurturing environment for direct latching, mothers can successfully navigate this transition. Ultimately, the goal is to create a comfortable and effective breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby.

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.

How long should you use a nipple shield when breastfeeding?

How long you use a nipple shield depends on why you are using it. You may use it for a short time or for a longer time, such as with a premature baby. As long as your baby is gaining weight using the nipple shield, it’s OK to keep using it. Talk to your healthcare provider to decide what’s right for you.

How do you fix a shallow latch when breastfeeding?

You may also need to use the exaggerated latch or flipple technique

1. Hold your breast and shape it so that your nipple is pointing up against your baby’s nose.
2. Shape your breast like a hamburger in line with the baby’s mouth.
3. Wait till your baby roots and opens it’s mouth very wide.

What happens if you use a nipple shield long term?

Milk supply can become reduced when using a nipple shield as milk can take longer to flow at the feed and breast stimulation is reduced with the barrier of the shield.

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 low 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.

How to wean off using a nipple shield?

Once your little one is comfortable and feeding well, unlatch, remove the shield, and re-latch. Continue to do this reducing the amount of time you feed with the shield in place at each session. Breastfeed frequently and as often as baby wants – this is called “on demand” feeding.

Will I ever be able to breastfeed without a nipple shield?

However, given time and patience, it is usually possible for a baby to learn to breastfeed without the shield. An LLL Leader can be a useful source of support if you need to choose, use and wean from nipple shields.

Is it OK to use nipple shield permanently?

A nipple shield is usually only used once your milk supply has increased in amount and changed from colostrum to mature milk. This usually happens 2 to 5 days after the birth. In most cases, you only need to use a nipple shield for a short time.

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.