A nipple shield is a thin, flexible device typically made of soft, food-grade silicone that a parent places over the nipple and areola during breastfeeding. It is designed to act as a temporary barrier with a firmer, more consistent shape, providing a stable target surface for the infant to latch onto. Understanding the correct technique for application is necessary for maximizing comfort and ensuring efficient milk transfer. This article provides clear, practical instructions for the proper and secure use of this feeding tool.
Why and When Nipple Shields Are Used
A nipple shield is indicated when a baby experiences difficulty establishing a deep, effective latch directly on the breast tissue. This often occurs in situations involving anatomical variations, such as flat or inverted nipples, which can be challenging for an infant to grasp and hold securely. Premature infants, who may have a weaker or uncoordinated suck reflex, sometimes benefit from the shield’s structured shape as it offers a firm, easier-to-maintain object in their mouth. Shields can also provide a temporary solution for parents experiencing severe nipple pain or trauma, allowing the tissue to heal while still permitting the continuation of feeding. It is often recommended that the shield be used as a short-term intervention under the supervision of a lactation professional.
Selecting the Correct Size and Material
Selecting the appropriate shield size is paramount for both effectiveness and comfort during the feeding process. Manufacturers produce shields in various diameters, often ranging from 16 millimeters to 24 millimeters, which refers to the width of the tunnel that the nipple sits within. The diameter of the shield’s tunnel must accommodate the nipple without causing friction or compression. A properly sized shield allows the nipple to be drawn freely into the tunnel without rubbing against the sides as the baby sucks.
To determine the correct fit, the parent should measure the diameter of the base of the nipple, not including the areola, and match this measurement to the shield’s tunnel base diameter. If the tunnel is too small, it can constrict milk flow and irritate the nipple tissue. Conversely, if the tunnel is too large, the baby may fail to stimulate the breast adequately, leading to lower milk intake. Modern shields are typically constructed from soft, odorless, ultra-thin silicone, which conforms well to the breast and is durable for repeated sterilization. Many designs also incorporate a small cut-out section along the rim to maximize skin-to-skin contact between the infant’s chin or nose and the parent’s breast.
Step-by-Step Guide to Application
Proper application begins with preparation, which involves washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the device. The shield itself should be sanitized according to the manufacturer’s directions. Many users find it helpful to moisten the rim of the shield with a few drops of water or breast milk. This slight dampness assists in creating a more secure vacuum seal against the skin, helping the shield stay firmly in place during the feeding session.
Begin by turning the outer rim of the shield backward, almost like unrolling the cuff of a sock. This action concentrates the shield material, making it easier to center over the nipple and areola. With the rim inverted, align the shield so that the tip of the nipple sits directly and comfortably in the center of the cone-shaped tunnel. The parent must then gently pull the shield back over the areola, unrolling the inverted rim onto the breast skin until it lies flat.
Pressing lightly but firmly around the entire circumference of the shield’s edge helps to establish a secure, airtight seal necessary to maintain its position. The suction created by this technique helps draw the nipple into the tunnel, presenting a stable, elongated shape for the baby to grasp. It is important to correctly orient the shield, particularly those models featuring the horseshoe-shaped cut-out section on the rim. This open area should be positioned so it aligns with where the baby’s nose will rest against the breast, usually the top side. Before offering the breast, the parent should gently tug on the shield’s tip to confirm that the shield is securely adhered. The baby should be encouraged to latch onto the shield deeply, covering the entire base of the silicone cone, rather than just sucking on the tip.
Post-Use Care and Storage
Immediately after the feeding session concludes, the shield should be thoroughly rinsed under cold water to remove any residual milk proteins or fats clinging to the silicone. Following the rinse, wash the device with warm, soapy water, using a mild, unscented detergent, and then rinse again completely. This manual cleaning removes the bulk of the contaminants.
Shields should be sterilized at least once daily, typically by boiling them in water for a few minutes or by using a microwave steam sterilizer, according to product guidelines. Proper storage is equally important; the shield should be kept in a clean, designated container or case when not in use to protect it from dust. The material should be regularly inspected for wear, as a shield that becomes sticky, cloudy, torn, or develops an odor should be replaced immediately.