Nipple Shields
Access the module for nipple shields (use, risks and complications, etc). Practice quiz below.
Quiz
- If a baby is unable to latch, name three factors that should be explored before using a nipple shield?
Answer
- breastfeeding self-efficacy; 2. breastfeeding history – including with this baby; 3. baby’s oral anatomy; 4. birth
- If the health care provider is unable to support the breastfeeding dyad they should give the dyad the nipple shield so they can continue breastfeeding on their own. True or False
Answer
False. A plan should be created that works for the family and communicate with someone that can support the dyad. Mom and Baby can go home even if not latching if there is a good follow-up plan to ensure baby is fed and milk supply is maintained. *Communication between care providers is critical
- Name three risks/complications with using a nipple shield for mom or baby.
Answer
- In the first days after birth, moms and babies benefit from time to connect and recover. Babies begin to use their neuromuscular abilities to latch. The introduction of a nipple shield at this time can interfere with this process.
- Imprinting in babies is oral/tactile and when they become exposed to artificial nipples in their mouths at an early age they may have difficulty replacing it with their mother’s nipple.
- Nipple shields may decrease milk transfer by 25%.
- Nipple shields may put pressure on milk ducts and cause plugged ducts or mastitis.
- Some babies become so accustomed to the shield that they do not breastfeed without it, exposing mom and baby to risk #1 and #2 for much longer and decreasing duration of breastfeeding.
- Name two reasons why the correct nipple shield size and are fit important?
Answer
When nipple shield is too large:
- The nipple shield will cause the baby to choke on it and the baby will not effectively feed, which can lead to a nipple aversion making the baby not want to breastfeed.
- The baby will not take in enough of the breast tissue, causing a decrease in milk transfer and a reduction in milk supply.
When the nipple shield is too small:
- it may not stimulate active sucking, causing a decrease in milk transfer and reduction in milk supply
- the shield can interfere with milk flow and traumatize nipple tissue
- How is a nipple shield put on?
Answer
- Turn the shield almost completely inside out, so that the tip is still in the right position but the sides are folded up around it
- Moisten the side that goes against the breast to help the shield stay in place
- Centre the tip over the nipple and smooth the rim against the breast
- Wiggle the nipple section to pop it out, by using a series of small rotations while holding the tip of the shield