Mothers' Reports of the Outcome of Nipple Shield Use

Abstract

Although nipple shields have undergone significant design improvements in recent years, many lactation consultants are reluctant to use them to assist with breastfeeding challenges. This article shares the experience of lactation consultants and their clients in the Breastfeeding Center at Evergreen Hospital with the use of ultra-thin, silicone nipple shields. Fifty-one clients who used ultra-thin nipple shields were interviewed by telephone to determine patterns of use and client satisfaction. Eighty-six percent of the respondents reported that the ultra-thin nipple shield helped them continue to breastfeed. Our positive experiences, along with those of our clients, suggest that ultra-thin nipple shields can be a useful lactation tool in maintaining the breastfeeding relationship until problems are resolved.