What Are The Best And Most Used Nipple Shield 2023

Breastfeeding is one of the most beautiful and natural ways to nourish a child, but it also comes with its share of challenges. It isn’t only physically demanding; it can be emotionally exhausting for mothers too. Moreover, issues like chest soreness, inverted nipples, cracked chest, and shallow latch, as well as tongue ties, can make it even more challenging. This is where the benefits of chest shields get into the picture. Why exactly should nursing and expecting moms use a nipple shield? What are the best choices out there for women?

Source: commons.wikimedia.org

You want your breastfeeding experience to be as easy and smooth as possible. There are enough other things to worry about. You don’t want to worry about getting your baby to latch or whether it’s going to hurt when your baby’s nose or mouth touches your sensitive nipples that are in pain. Finding the right nipple shields that are specially designed for breastfeeding will help take that worry away.

Here, we’ll discuss the right nipple shield size that you can get, and why some parents may consider these.

Understanding Best Nipple Shields For Flat Or Inverted Nipples

A nipple shield, also known as breast shield, milk cup, breast cup, or Woolwich shield, is a small piece made of food-grade silicone that can be placed onto the nipple so that the baby can latch itself onto there.

It may affect milk supply if you’re already struggling with producing milk, but for the most part, it doesn’t change how much a baby gets, so you can still feed your child breast milk, while also creating a bonding experience with them as well.

When a baby sucks on a tire nipple rather than their nipple, parents might consider using Haakaa nipple shields, especially if the baby was born early and struggles to drink milk directly from the actual nipple. These shields, with their innovative cut-out shape, are designed to help nipples recover while allowing the baby to receive expressed breast milk. The nipple portion of the shield mimics the mother’s nipple, making it easier for the baby to use. They are a great alternative to Medela ones, and are latex-free, catering to both large nipples and smaller nipples. The tip inside the shield encourages proper latch and feeding.

You want to keep stimulating the milk supply. There is also the drawback that babies can become dependent on the nipple shield, making it difficult to wean from them, and it can make potentially getting them to stop feeding in public a challenge. But, if it’s incredibly hard on your body, we have a few options for you to consider, and here, we’ll touch upon why they’re great and some other factors surrounding them.

Benefits Of Best Nipple Shield

Your lactation consultant can help you figure out if a nipple shield is right for you and your baby. She can also help you decide what the perfect nipple shields for breastfeeding are.

Some very good benefits come from the use of a nipple shield. Some women have flat or inverted nipples. For those breastfeeding moms, it can be tough at feeding time. A baby’s mouth can have latching issues to flat nipples. The flow of more milk is affected by the nipple shape. You can talk to your lactation consultant about what the right nipple shield is for flat or inverted nipples to help your baby with latching.

Sometimes other factors make it hard for babies to latch and nurse. If you have a tongue-tied baby or one that was born prematurely, they may nurse better with a flexible silicone nipple shield.

You don’t lose benefits by using a nipple shield, either. You may be concerned that you’ll miss out on some of the valuable skin-to-skin contact you get when you’re breastfeeding your baby. You won’t. The nipple shield is very small. You place it just over the nipple where it will stay in place due to a suction cup functionality. Your baby’s mouth will contact the nipple shield, but all other parts of their body can still be part of the skin-to-skin contact.

So, let’s look at some of the top nipple shields for breastfeeding moms.

nipple shield for breastfeeding moms
Source: flickr.com

Nipple Shield: Pros And Cons

Pros:

  • Prevent nipple pain and trauma.
  • Help with milk removal.
  • Decrease the level of sensitivity while breastfeeding.
  • Helpful for flat or inverted nipples.

Cons:

  • May cause lower milk production.
  • This may make weaning difficult.

What Are The Best Brands?

Among the multiple options out there, the Medela Contact Nipple Shield, along with the Ameda Contact Nipple Shield and the Purifyou Nipple Shield, are considered some of the best choices are considered one of the top choices. As with most nipple shields in the Medela brand, this Medela nipple shield is specifically designed to mimic the natural shape of the nipples, providing comfortable and effective solutions for nursing women. It is also available in different nipple shield sizes to ensure a proper fit for each mother’s nipple, whatever their shape and size.

When using a breast shield, it is also recommended to use nipple cream and rinse the shield with warm water before each use to promote healing and protect the delicate skin. Nipple shields can help prevent bleeding nipples and offer relief for mothers with breastfeeding issues. Whether you are an expecting mom or a breastfeeding mom struggling with latch problems, using a breast shield can provide much-needed support. Remember, if you encounter persistent breastfeeding challenges, seeking guidance from lactation consultants can offer valuable assistance and advice. Join us as we dive into the world of breast shields and help you find the perfect fit for your breastfeeding journey.

The Medela Contact Nipple Shield

This one is probably the top nipple shield on the market since it’s got a cut-out area for sensitive skin contact between mom and baby. It even comes in a carrying case and different nipple sizes for this. Nipple shield sizing can be dependent not just on the size of the painful nipples themselves, but also how much of the correct size can fit into the mouth, and how it fits. You can determine this with the FAQs that are on their site. They’re made BPA-free and are safe for both the moms and the baby. Most users will enjoy these, and they’ve reported more enjoyment with breastfeeding and less pain too.

Medela nipple shields are high quality but priced very reasonably. There are three size options you can order these nipple shields in. It’s recommended that before you start using your Medela breast shell, though, you talk with a professional lactation consultant.

Medela nipple shield are high quality but priced really reasonably.
Source: flickr.com

Purifyou Premium Nipple Shield

This one is a three-pack of nipple shields made of silicon, and they are chemical-free. No dangerous substances are present such as latex, lead, phthalates, and also BPA, commonly found in plastics. You can choose from two different sizes. They also come with a clear carrying case, so you never have to lose even one Purifyou Premium Nipple Shield. These are some of the top breast shields for breastfeeding moms with flat or inverted areola because of their shape and length. They still also allow for good skin-to-skin contact, too.

NUK Barely There Nipple Shield

This one is a 24 mm nipple shield, and these are true to their name. They’re incredibly soft, thin silicone that helps create the best comfort for the breasts. The design is triangular, which maximizes the mother-baby skin contact, along with soft nodules that you can use to stimulate the milk flow that’s there. This one is a favorite amongst mothers who have sensitive nipples, and many moms prefer this over others since it’s got a realistic texture. Children will usually take this nipple well and latch onto it easily. It works especially well for children with a tongue tie because of the ultra-thin silicone. Because it’s so ultra-thin, babies with less room in their mouths can still get a good flow of milk. There’s a small carrying case to keep it away from germs and dirt when you’re taking it with you, as well.

Philips AVENT Best Nipple Protector

This nipple protector takes the breastfeeding journey very seriously. Instead of just having a top cutout for the skin contact, it also has a bottom cutout as well. What you have is two side flaps that hold the piece together and more exposed skin, which is suitable for connections. The one downside to this is that since there is less surface area for this, it might struggle with getting stuck onto the breast. You may want to consider this one once the baby can latch itself on there, and you might need to hold it in place more, which can be quite hard for parents who struggle with trying to juggle everything.

These come in both small and standard nipple sizes and are made from BPA-free soft silicone that’s sterilized by steaming the nipple itself. There is also a more massive hole in the nipple area for better milk flow. You don’t have to pay much for the Philips Avent Nipple Protector, and you can get multiple ones, so you have them in the house, car, diaper bag, or whatever. These are perfect for breastfeeding moms who want the ideal nipple shield for still allowing optimum skin-to-skin contact.

top nipple shield
Source: flickr.com

Haakaa Breastfeeding Nipple Shield

Haakaa nipple shield takes the prize for being the most unique on the list. This breast shield has options for multiple nipple sizes, and if you’re struggling with finding one that fits the baby’s mouth, this might be the one on the market that you need. Some moms have flat or inverted nipples, and it’s this product that works with those types. Other ones may not, so if you have a different nipple size or (butterfly) shape, this might be it. This one is good if you’re struggling with finding one that helps to shield, but the problem with this one is that you may have trouble getting enough milk out of these for the baby to be happy.

This one isn’t the best for a mother’s skin-to-skin contact breast shield. The shield part of it is bigger than many of the others we’ve mentioned on this list. This one has a nipple that looks much like a bottle nipple. If you’re planning on transitioning your baby to a bottle or back and forth from the bottle to the breast, this may be the right breast shield for doing that.

Lansinoh Contact Nipple Shield

You can buy the Lansinoh Contact Nipple Shield in packs of two nipple covers. That way you can have one in different convenient places. The silicone is BPA-free, super thin, and very soft so babies have an easy time latching on. This is the perfect breast shield for promoting skin contact. You’ll also get a carrying case with your pack. You’ll want to use your Lansinoh Contact Nipple Shield under the advisement of a lactation consultant (more reviews available here: https://www.experiencedmommy.com/best-nipple-shield-breastfeeding/).

MAM Nipple Shield

One very cool thing that makes this a good candidate for the right nipple shield is it comes with a storage case that sterilizes the MAM Nipple Shields when you put them in it and pop it in the microwave. You can also get these in many different sizes (four holes or other special cut-out designs) so you can use a more appropriate size as your baby grows. You’ll notice that MAM Nipple Shields look much like pacifiers. That’s because this manufacturer specializes in innovative design. The silicone is chemical-free and eco-friendly, and it’s designed to stay in place so it’s easier for your baby to eat (check more reviews here on the VeryWellFamily page.

Source: flickr.com

Best Nipple Shield Conclusion

The best way to choose the right size and shape of the nipple is to talk to the healthcare provider or the lactation consultant who will tell you which one you should get, and they’ll help you figure out the right nipple shield for you to try out. If you struggle with this, you may want to consider one of these options. Since they help with improving the overall state of your feeding experiences, and a lot of parents will learn that with these, you’ll be able to accommodate many of the nipple sizes and shapes that the baby may have. It can, in turn, create a better feeding experience for everyone, and you’ll be able to provide a better state for your child and a better feeding experience that doesn’t hurt either of you.

Best Nipple Shields FAQs

Which Brand Of A Nipple Shield Is Best?

Medela is one of the top breast shield brands. The other excellent brands are Ardo Tulips, Lansinoh, and Purifyou.

Do Breast Shells Or Inverted Nipples Reduce Milk Supply?

Nipple covers should not reduce milk supply if used correctly. However, if the angle is incorrect, only a small amount of milk may be let down. The breast shield needs to fit properly so it doesn’t interrupt milk flow.

How Do I Choose My Nipple Shield?

It’s important to know the diameter of your nipple at the base. Then, see the size that matches it on the brand’s website. You can also talk to your doctor or lactation consultant about what the right breast shield is for your needs.

Source: flickr.com

Why Are Chest Shields Not Recommended?

Mothers sometimes tend to misuse nipple shields. Thus, they produce less milk than usual.

Are Nipple Shields Bad For Babies?

No, breast shields are not bad for babies, primarily if moms only use it for a short time. It is even helpful for premature babies who cannot latch on properly.

Do Breast Cups Confuse Babies?

Nipple covers may confuse babies. The reason is that they may need to alter their latching and suckling pattern while using a nipple shield.

Do Breast Cups Reduce Pain?

Yes, nipple shields can reduce the pain that moms, with cracked or sore nipples, experience. They may even prevent painful breastfeeding sessions if used early.

How Long Should I Use A Size Nipple Shield?
You should only use nipple covers for the first few weeks. In case your child’s weight is not increasing, though, you may continue to use them.

Why Do You Need Nipple Shields?
You need breast covers if your baby cannot feed on you properly. They also allow you to keep on breastfeeding even when you are trying to heal your sore nipples.

Does Feeding With Nipple Shield Take Longer?
Feeding does take longer with a breast shield because the milk collects at the tip of the shield before the baby latch has something to do with it. It does not stimulate milk production, though, your child may have to wait. The right nipple shield will not interrupt milk flow, though, if used properly.

What Is The Most Efficient Woolwich Shield?

The most efficient Woolwich Shield might not be explicitly identified, but among various types of nipple shields, Lansinoh contact nipple shields and Purifyou nipple covers are often praised for their effectiveness. These, along with Dr. Brown’s nipple covers and Medela shields, are designed to ensure a good latch and are considered a great nipple shield option among the many nipple covers available. Other nipple covers might not offer the same level of comfort or ease of use. It’s important to use a nipple shield correctly to maximize benefits.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Using Breast Cups?

The disadvantages of using breast cups, or nipple shields, include the potential for a poor latch if not used correctly. Breastfeeding experts suggest that while contact nipple covers can be helpful, especially for those with large nipples or larger nipples, they may sometimes hinder the baby’s ability to achieve a whole nipple latch. This is a consideration when comparing a regular shield and other shields. Additionally, keeping the nipple shield clean is crucial, which involves washing in hot soapy water and ensuring they are heat resistant for sterilization purposes.

Is It OK To Use Breast Cups All The Time?

Using breast cups or nipple covers like Medela’s shields all the time may not be recommended. While they can provide gentle pressure and aid in continued breastfeeding, especially for those with large nipples, they should not replace the natural latching process entirely. Other nipple shields, including contact nipple cups, are designed to help with specific issues like large nipples or a poor latch, but over-reliance on them can potentially impede the natural development of breastfeeding skills. It’s essential to ensure covers stay clean with regular washing in soapy water and to seek guidance from a healthcare professional on the appropriate and balanced use of a nipple shield.

Which Woolwich Shield Is Best For Breastfeeding?

When choosing the best Woolwich Shield for breastfeeding, consider the purifyou nipple shields or large nipples Dr. Brown’s nipple shields among the many nipple shields available, as they cater to different needs like own nipple size, addressing cracked nipples, reducing nipple soreness, and being suitable for those with large nipples.

Do Babies Get Less Milk With Breast Shields?

New moms, especially those who have just started breastfeeding or are facing breastfeeding problems, might find that while using breast shields, babies can continue breastfeeding effectively despite a baby transition to shields, which come in slightly different shapes and stay secure during use; however, it is essential to sterilize these shields in boiling water for safety.

 

Last Updated on April 12, 2023 by Harold Chan

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