Why are nipple shields not recommended?

Understanding Nipple Shields: A Cautionary Perspective
Nipple shields, designed to assist breastfeeding mothers, have become a topic of considerable debate among healthcare professionals. While they can provide temporary relief for certain breastfeeding challenges, their use is often not recommended due to a variety of concerns regarding safety, effectiveness, and potential long-term impacts on breastfeeding practices.
Limited Evidence of Effectiveness
Research indicates that the effectiveness of nipple shields is questionable. A comprehensive review of the literature reveals that there is insufficient evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of contemporary nipple shield use. This lack of robust data raises concerns about their role in promoting successful breastfeeding, particularly when alternatives may be available.
Potential Impact on Milk Supply
One of the significant drawbacks of using nipple shields is their potential to interfere with a mother’s milk supply. When a baby latches onto a nipple shield, they may not be able to extract milk as effectively as they would from the breast directly. This can lead to inadequate milk removal, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy supply. Consequently, mothers may find themselves needing to pump after nursing sessions to ensure their milk production remains stable, adding an extra layer of complexity to the breastfeeding experience.
Risk of Dependency
Another critical issue is the risk of dependency on the nipple shield. While they may provide a solution for immediate latching difficulties—such as with flat or inverted nipples—over-reliance on these devices can hinder the development of a proper latch. This dependency can create a cycle where the baby becomes accustomed to the shield, making it more challenging to transition back to direct breastfeeding.
Short-Term Solution, Long-Term Challenges
Experts generally advise that nipple shields should only be used in specific situations and for the shortest duration possible. They are often recommended for mothers facing particular challenges, such as those with flat nipples or infants who struggle to latch. However, the overarching consensus is that these devices should not be seen as a long-term solution. Instead, they should be used as a temporary aid while addressing the underlying issues with the help of a lactation consultant.
Conclusion: A Cautious Approach
In summary, while nipple shields can offer immediate assistance in certain breastfeeding scenarios, their use is fraught with potential complications. The lack of strong evidence supporting their effectiveness, combined with risks to milk supply and the possibility of creating dependency, leads many experts to recommend caution. Mothers facing breastfeeding challenges are encouraged to seek guidance from healthcare professionals to explore alternative solutions that promote successful breastfeeding without the need for nipple shields.

Why shouldn’t I use a nipple shield?

Some of the disadvantages of using a nipple shield are: 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.

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.

Why do midwives 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).

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.

Is it bad to wear nipple covers every day?

Why Shouldn’t I Wear Nipple Covers Continuously? Skin Irritation: Prolonged use of nipple covers, especially in warm and humid environments, can lead to skin irritation, redness, and even infections like mastitis.

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 nipple covers exist?

From coverage to fashion to skin sensitivity and more, nipple covers are a go to solution for women who don’t want to wear a bra but also don’t want the visibility of nips through their top.

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.

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.

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.