You might need a nipple shield if... This answers the questiond: Do I need a nipple shield? Or Are nipple shields right for me? Do nipple shields help? Are nipple shields good? All of these questions are answered here with these examples.

You Might Need a Nipple Shield If...

You might need a nipple shield if... Find out if yo need a nipple shield and what the best nipple shield is to help with breast feeding issues. Keep milk supply up while using a nipple shield with the natural connection shield.

Nipple shields are a great tool that get a bad rep sometimes. Ultimately, they are a lifesaver for many moms who would otherwise not be able to continue their breastfeeding journey. Nipple shields are a clear silicone device that goes over your nipple on your breast and provides an artificial nipple for baby to latch onto. It also acts as a barrier between your baby’s mouth and your nipple. Whatever the reason a nipple shield is needed, we always recommend consulting a lactation consultant before using it if possible. It’s also important to know that there is no shame in needing a nipple shield. It does not mean you failed; it does not mean there is something wrong with you. It means you are smart and dedicated to your baby and their need for nourishment... no matter the way.

You have flat nipples. If you have flat or inverted nipples, it may be very difficult or impossible for your baby to latch and get breast milk. Using a nipple shield can give your baby something to latch onto. It will help pull your nipple into the shield which over time can help bring your nipples out so that baby can eventually latch to your bare breast.

You have large breasts and nipples and your baby is too small to latch on. Whether you are large or your baby is just small (i.e. a preemie) nipple shields can help bring you and baby together. Because nipple shields come in different sizes you can even choose a small size if your baby's mouth is really small.

Your nipples are so sore that your toes curl every time baby latches. If you are in crazy amounts of pain every time you feed your baby it might be time to consider a nipple shield. Nipple shields might be the perfect way to give your nipples a break from the pain and allow you to continue to breast feed your baby. The Natural Connection Nipple Shield is perfect for this purpose. It allows your milk to flow freely and allows the important connection to somewhat remain between baby's mouth  and mom's nipple while allowing you to heal. Babies also don't become as dependent on it as regular nipple shields. Make sure you consult a lactation specialist so they can help remedy the original problem that was causing pain so when you wean baby off the nipple shield the pain won’t reoccur.

You have blisters on your nipples. This again comes back to your baby maybe having issues with latching. Fist things first, get an appointment set up to have baby’s latch analyzed by a professional. If your anything like some moms your baby might have a great latch and IBCLC’s say all looks good but you are still in huge amounts of pain with every feed, The Natural Connection nipple shields might be the answer. Even if you only use it every other feeding just to give your nipple a break. If you are determined to keep your breastfeeding journey going then nipple shields might just be your saving grace.

Your waiting for a lactation appointment. If you have been dealing with latch problems that are causing you pain but you can't get in to see an IBCLC or other breastfeeding specialist for a few days, or even weeks, a nipple shield is a great temporary solution. It can give you the relief you need and allow your nipples to heal while you wait to diagnose and then fix the issues your baby may be struggling with. This is the best nipple shield and is perfect for this because other shields can cause baby to become dependent on the shield and weaning can be difficult but the natural connection shield reduces this possibility. 

If you decide to go ahead and start using a nipple shield it’s important to make sure you use the nipple shield the right way.

Here are some great tips to help you with using a nipple shield too.

No matter the reason you start using a nipple shield you’ll likely eventually want to wean from them. If you chose a traditional full coverage nipple shield,  weaning baby off nipple shields can be frustrating and take time but this nipple shield weaning kit can be a huge help.

 

Should I use a nipple shield? Is this a question you've asked? Here are some examples of why you might need a nipple shield. Using a nipple shield has pros and cons so it's important to know if a nipple shield is right for me.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.