What are Nipple Shields?
Nipple shields are nipple-shaped pieces of very thin silicone that are worn over the breast during feedings to help you alleviate concerns like damaged nipples and difficulties with latching.
Silicone nipple shields are intended to serve as a second layer of skin to the breast, leaving little to no space between the end of the shield nipple and your nipple. The purpose of using a shield is to minimize pain and allow for a deep asymmetric latch.
Easy Tips for Good Nipple Shield Application
- Nipple shields should be used in the shortest amount of time so that the baby can easily latch directly to the breast without the shield compromising your milk supply.
- I find that the 24mm shield fits most moms best and that with the smaller-sized shields it is more difficult to get a deep, second-skin fit.
4 Easy Steps to Good Nipple Shield Application
Step 1: Insert your thumbs
Apply the nipple shield dry, without wetting it or using oils or creams because these substances just make it slippery and difficult to apply. When ready, place both thumbs into the nipple shield itself, stretch it to allow your thumbs to be at the tip of the shield, and place your fingers on the outside of the shield, opposite the thumbs. Avoid pushing in on the tip of the nipple.
Step 2: Flip the shield partially inside out
Keeping your thumbs and fingers together, flip the shield partially inside out, leaving about 1/3 of it to form a small dent. Remember to not let go!
Step 3: Apply the shield to your nipple
Place that dent onto your nipple and push back the shield into the breast as you pull the shield apart at the same time. This will cause the shield to “pop out” and your nipple will comfortably go inside the shield.
Suction will be formed so that when the baby latches, he or she will pull your nipple into the remainder of the shield. This enables your child to get a mouth full of your breast instead of just the shield.
Step 4: Ensure that it is properly worn
When you let go, try brushing your fingers across the shield to ensure that it is properly worn. A shield that is deeply suctioned to the breast will not just pop off. This avoids busy baby hands from knocking the shield off during other latching attempts.
This maneuver takes a bit of practice to achieve but I assure you that your effort will pay off in the long run. Having a baby who successfully transitions from strictly bottle-feeding to breastfeeding by using the shield is a wonderful accomplishment!
Do you still need help?
Breastfeeding Perspectives provides virtual consults for nursing problems. Feel free to schedule a consult today so we can assist you.
