What are nipple shields and should I be using...

What are nipple shields and should I be using them?

Nipple shields are silicone covers designed to make the nipple more prominent. They are used mainly if the baby will not take the breast, the baby is born prematurely or the mother has sore nipples.

There is some debate over the use of nipple shields and there are a number of problems associated with using them. Nipple shields can cause the baby to get less milk if the shield is used incorrectly, mums can be more at risk of mastitis, and it can be difficult to wean from a shield.

Nipple shields should only be used as a last resort and if you are considering using them it is essential you ensure your baby is getting enough milk by monitoring weight gain and wet and dirty nappy production.

More questions

Why is my breastfed baby fussy in the evenings?

Babies can often be fussy in the evenings and you may find it difficult to nurse or settle them.

How can I tell if my baby is getting enough milk?

If your baby is gaining weight while being fed exclusively on breastmilk, then you have nothing to worry about. You can also check to make sure that your child is producing enough wet and dirty nappies. As long...

If I'm taking medication, do I need to stop breastfeeding?

If you are taking medication it is highly unlikely that you will need to stop breastfeeding. When taking medication only a tiny amount shows up in the milk and is almost never harmful to your baby. If a...

I've heard that breastmilk and formula are almost the same. Is this true?

Many mothers when deciding how to feed their babies are under the impression that formula is almost the same as breastmilk. This is completely untrue and by choosing breastmilk you are choosing what is best for...

Does breastmilk have enough iron for my baby?

Breastmilk has plenty of iron to last your baby at least the first six months of his life.

What are nipple shields and should I be using them?

Nipple shields are silicone covers designed to make the nipple more prominent. They are used mainly if the baby will not take the breast, the baby is born prematurely or the mother has sore nipples. There is...

Do I need to give my breastfed baby vitamin D supplements?

It is recommended by experts that all babies, including babies that are breastfed be given 5 micrograms of vitamin D3 a day. This is because recent studies have shown that mothers and children in the UK have...

My baby spits up: Is this serious?

Spitting up is very common and most young babies spit up at least once a day. This is because their digestive systems are immature which makes it very easy for their stomach contents to come back up their...

My baby keeps bringing up food and seems to be in pain when she eats. What can I do?

Your baby possibly has reflux. This is caused by a weak valve at the top of a baby’s stomach which allows their feed to come back up. Symptoms include heartburn and vomiting. You should consult with your...

My baby has diarrhea, should I stop breastfeeding?

The answer is no, definitely not.There is no benefit to you or your baby that can be gained from stopping breastfeeding. By continuing to breastfeed you will be giving your baby the best medicine possible to...