What is a Nipple Shield?
A nipple shield is a thin, flexible silicone cover that fits over the nipple and areola during breastfeeding. It's designed to help babies latch onto the breast more easily, especially if they're having trouble due to various reasons such as flat or inverted nipples, premature birth, or latch issues.
When to Use a Nipple Shield:
Latching Difficulties: If your baby is having difficulty latching onto your breast or maintaining a latch, a nipple shield can provide assistance by offering a larger and firmer target for them to latch onto.
Sore or Cracked Nipples: Nipple shields can offer relief if you're experiencing soreness or cracking of the nipples, providing a protective barrier between your nipple and your baby's mouth.
Premature Babies: Premature infants often face challenges with breastfeeding due to their smaller size or underdeveloped suckling reflex, making nipple shields a valuable aid in facilitating successful nursing sessions.
Babies with a Tongue Tie: A tongue-tie can sometimes restrict a baby's tongue movement, making it hard to latch deeply onto the breast. A nipple shield acts like an extension, providing a longer and firmer surface for your baby to latch and suck on. This helps them get a better mouthful of breast tissue and transfer milk more effectively.
How to Use a Nipple Shield:
Choose the Right Size: Nipple shields come in various sizes, so it's essential to select one that fits your nipple comfortably. A properly fitting nipple shield should cover your entire nipple and a portion of the areola without restricting milk flow. Need to measure? Check out our free measurement tool on our home page!
Use our Nipple Shield Sticker for the perfect fit: Before applying the nipple shield, apply our nipple shield sticker to your shield, then adhere to your skin. Our nipple shield sticker as an easy and stress-free alternative to ensure your nipple shield stays in place.
Position Correctly: Hold the nipple shield firmly over your nipple, ensuring that it's centered and aligned with your baby's mouth. Gently compress the shield to remove any air bubbles and create suction. Ensure that the cutout is placed where baby's nose touches your skin, which will enhance a deeper sense of skin-to-skin contact for mama and baby.
Encourage Latching: Once the nipple shield is in place, guide your baby's mouth to your breast and encourage them to latch. You may need to express a few more drops of milk to entice your baby to feed.
Monitor Feeding: Pay attention to your baby's feeding cues and ensure they're effectively transferring milk while using the nipple shield. If you notice any signs of discomfort or inadequate milk intake, seek assistance from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider.
Using a nipple shield can be a helpful tool for overcoming breastfeeding challenges and ensuring a positive feeding experience for both you and your baby. Using Le Lolo's colored nipple shield will ensure you never lose your shield again! By understanding when and how to use a nipple shield correctly, you can navigate potential hurdles with confidence and continue to enjoy the bonding benefits of breastfeeding. Remember, if you're experiencing difficulties or have questions about using a nipple shield, don't hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or healthcare professional for support and guidance.