Probably, you are here because someone has recommended that you use nipple shields, or you accidentally came across a nipple shield after Googling about sore or painful nipple problems, difficulty getting baby to latch, or what my friends call long feeding as a way of life. And, to tell the truth, the first idea that most parents get is: Wait... I need a "what now?"
Don't worry. You're not alone. Nipple shields are something of a mystery in the realm of breastfeeding, yet, when properly instructed, they may turn out to be an absolute savior. Let me talk you through the basics: how to breastfeed with a nipple shield, how to wear a nipple shield, and how to wear a nipple shield correctly. And, we will make it light-hearted, since, after all, parenting is hard enough without serious, clinical blogs.
So grab a cup of tea, and we can jump in.
What Exactly Is a Nipple Shield?
Consider a nipple shield to be a small silicone hat on your nipple. It is a non-stiff, pliable stimulus required to assist babies whenever breastfeeding becomes impossible. Shields are typically composed of pure silicone that is very thin and can come in various sizes depending on the size of your breasts.
Moms tend to turn to them when:
- Their nipples are painful, broken, or flattened/inverted.
- Their child was preterm and required additional assistance to latch.
- They are grappling with nipple disorientation.
- Nursing is sore, and they require such soft protection.
It is not meant to be a permanent shield, but a temporary bridge to allow nursing to exist where nothing otherwise would.
How to Use a Nipple Shield to Breastfeed
Okay, let's get practical. This is how to simplify nipple shield nursing and make it much less scary:
1.Pick the Right Size
You must have the one that fits just right as Goldilocks did. Smaller or larger, you and baby are going to be frustrated. The majority of brands include sizing instructions; do not bypass it.
2. Gear Your Breast and the Shield.
The shield can be sprayed with warm water and become softer and more comfortable. In order to make it stick better, some parents make it wet.
3.Put the Shield into the Right Position.
That is where most parents lose their heads but it is not so complicated as it seems. Halfway inside out, fit the shield over the nipple, and roll the edges up again so that the shield snugs onto your skin. This is the old technique of how to attach nipple shield easily.
4.Latch the Baby
When the shield is on, take your baby to the breast the way you would. The shield serves as a guide, and they have a good latch and suck well.
5.Check for Milk Transfer
When the milk collects at the end of the shield or you can hear your baby swallowing, you are winning the game of nipple shield nursing!
How to Put on a Nipple Shield Without Crying
And to be frank there is a learning curve. The initial few occasions most likely you will believe: Why is this piece of art touching my boob like origami? That's normal.
Parents who have been there have the following hacks:
- Warm It Up: It can be softened by being rinsed in warm water and easily applied.
- Apply a Little Breast Milk: Smear a few drops inside the shield so it will stick.
- Practice When Hushed: Do this when you are calm and not in the middle of a hungry meltdown.
- Have Backup Shields: Since it is the definition of parenting to lose the one thing you need at 2 AM.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Nipple Shield Nursing.
Like any parenting device, shields have their advantages and disadvantages.
The Pros:
- They lessen soreness and pain.
- They assist the babies in latching when the nipples are flatted or turned inside out.
- They are able to close the gap that exists between bottle-feeding and breastfeeding.
The Cons:
- Unless handled properly, they are known to reduce milk transfer.
- They need to be cleaned (and who has time to clean them?).
- There is a chance that they will become dependent on some babies.
When to Reach Out for Help
A nipple cover might have miraculous properties, but it is no magic. You may want to find a lactation consultant once you realize your baby is not gaining weight, it appears to be constantly frustrated at the breast, or you yourself experience constant pain.
Pro tip: Do not forget to bring along your shield to appointments. A consultant can demonstrate to you exactly how to use a nipple shield in your individual case rather than subjecting yourself to trial-and-error.
Shields eventually become unnecessary to most parents. It can happen slowly, sometimes wearing them at night and not in the day. Sometimes, your baby just gets attached to it without needing any of those, as though he or she has moved up to the big league. It is all about patience and flexibility.
And to be honest, you may be breastfeeding, pumping, formula-feeding, but what counts is that your baby is fed, happy, and thriving. No gold medal for the most natural latch. Parenting is stressful enough already, and feeding should not be something to add to the pressure.
Nipple shields look like an impassable barrier at first, but they are just another item in the parent survival kit. It takes a few attempts to learn how to breastfeed with a shield, how to insert a nipple shield, and how to adjust a nipple shield. Once you understand it, you will never again question why you were so worried.
It is important to remember that nipple shield nursing is not about doing a perfect job. It is all about making feeding easy, comfortable and long lasting to both you and your baby. Add a bit of patience, a bit of humor and you will find your rhythm.
Being able to feed your baby is not only about milk but also about closeness and those little milk-drunk smiles and sleepy cuddles that make feeding the baby enjoyable.
