Round nipple shield

Types of round nipple shields

• Silicone nipple shields

  Silicone is a widely used nipple shield material because of its adaptability and softness. Shields made from silicone have a natural feel and mimic the feel of a breast during breastfeeding. These shields are translucent and flexible, making them more comfy for infants to latch onto. In addition, silicone shields are dishwasher-friendly and easy to clean, making them a suitable option for breastfeeding mothers.

• Latex nipple shields

  Although not as common as silicone, latex shields are becoming more widely used since they are more pliable and sturdier. In addition, they are very resilient and can withstand regular wear and tear. However, some babies are allergic to latex, so mothers should ensure they are not allergic to latex before using latex shields. Also, unlike silicone shields, latex nipple shields may not be as transparent or flexible.

• Foam-filled nipple shields

  Because these shields are light and provide a good seal, foam-filled shields are ideal for mothers with flat or inverted nipples. Unfortunately, these shields are unsuitable for cleaning in a dishwasher because they are not always composed of dishwasher-safe materials. In addition, even though they are comfortable and provide a better grip, the durability of foam-filled shields is lesser than that of silicone and latex ones.

• Reusable and disposables

  Nipple shields are available in both disposable and reusable forms. Silicone and latex shields are often reusable and can be washed in a dishwasher. However, in a pinch, disposable shields can provide a temporary solution. Although disposable shields can be costly, they may provide a hygienic, temporary alternative to mothers traveling or with more than one infant.

Design of round nipple shields

• Shape and size

  A round nipple shield is a thin, dome-shaped silicone or latex shield worn over the nipple during breastfeeding. The shield's center has a small opening to allow the infant to breastfeed while providing a barrier between mother and child. Nipple shields come in various sizes to accommodate different nipple shapes and dimensions. For babies having difficulty latching, some come with a tapered base for a better latch.

• Textured surface

  Some shields feature textured surfaces to stimulate the baby's tongue and encourage better sucking. This is particularly useful for infants struggling to feed, as the texture can help them latch more effectively. Silicone shields have a more natural feel than latex, which makes it easier for babies to latch onto the mother's breast.

• Anti-colic valve

  This valve reduces air intake, minimizing the risk of gas and colic for the infant. The shield design optimizes milk flow using built-in valves or grooves to channel milk securely. Also, the anti-colic valve helps reduce gas and bloating in infants by preventing air from mixing with the milk.

• Ergonomic design

  Inevitably, comfort and usability must consider factors when designing round nipple shields. For easier attachment, most have thin, contoured edges that smoothly fit the breast. In addition, some designs include slots or holes that securely attach the shield to the breast for a better grip. These features help prevent slippage during breastfeeding, providing a stable and comfortable experience for mothers and infants.

How to choose round nipple shields

• Material

  Most breastfeeding accessories have one or more materials as their constituents. However, some are more flexible than others and come with added texture for grip. Therefore, it is advisable to go for a silicone shield that is easy to clean or get a latex shield that is softer and more comfortable. Unfortunately, foam-filled shields are not so durable, so they must be changed often. Also, shields with antimicrobial coatings should be considered for added hygiene.

• Size

  The nipple shield's diameter must match the nipple size for effective latching and milk transfer. Poorly fitting shields can cause nipple soreness and reduce milk output. Therefore, manufacturers' recommended size guidelines should be checked and, if possible, a fitting test performed before making a bulk purchase. Bulk buying may be easier; however, give more consideration to the quality of the product than the quantity, as low quality will hurt the business.

• Shape

  Buyers should also pay attention to the shield shape for compatibility with consumers' diverse needs, as they come in rounded, oval, and slanted shapes. Also, some even have textured surfaces to help babies latch better. Buyers should ensure the shields have nipples with varying lengths and widths to cater to different mothers/nurses.

• Ease of cleaning and sterlization

  For hygiene and practicality, the bite-proof shields should be easy to clean and sterilize. Buyers should consider purchasing shields that can be cleaned in a dishwasher or that have built-in sterilization features. Additionally, shields with fewer crevices and smooth surfaces are easier to clean, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup.

Benefits of round nipple shields

• Increased comfort during breastfeeding

  A breast shield reduces discomfort for mothers with sore or cracked nipples by providing a cushioned surface for the infant to latch onto. The shield alleviates pain, allowing mothers to enjoy a more comfortable and longer-lasting breastfeeding experience. Therefore, many buyers get these nursing pads that ensure breastfeeding is no longer a painful experience for mothers.

• Corrects babies' latching difficulties

  One significant benefit of the nipple shield is that it provides a quick and temporary fix for babies with latching difficulties. It offers a larger surface area for infants to latch onto, which is especially helpful for newborns struggling to grasp the nipple. This larger target makes it easier for them to find and secure a proper latch, thereby improving feeding efficiency.

• Versatile feeding option

  Nipple shields are compatible with breast pumps, allowing mothers to extract milk and feed their infants through the shield. Therefore, these shields offer flexibility whether breastfeeding directly or providing expressed milk. In addition, buyers can provide their consumers with breast shields that have larger openings for babies feeding more quickly or smaller openings for slower feeders.

• Promotes milk supply

  The infant's sucking through the shield sends signals to the mother's body to produce more milk. Thus, continued breastfeeding, even with a shield, helps maintain and boost milk supply. Therefore, users will not have to worry about milk supply issues as long as the baby latches on, regardless of whether it's the breast or a shield.

Q&A

Are nipple shields effective in helping babies latch?

Yes, they help babies latch. A nipple shield can effectively facilitate better latching for infants having trouble grasping the nipple. The shield provides a larger, easier target for the baby, which can help them latch more effectively during breastfeeding.

Can using nipple shields delay breastfeeding's natural process?

No, it won't delay anything as long as it is used correctly. A well-fitting and appropriately used shield will not impact the breastfeeding process. However, if the baby relies solely on the shield for feeding, they may struggle to latch directly later on.

Do nipple shields change the flow of breast milk?

Absolutely, that is one of the benefits of using a nipple shield. These nursing essentials come with different sizes of openings to control the flow, whether slower or faster. Larger openings permit increased milk flow; smaller openings restrict it, thus tailoring the feeding experience according to individual needs.

How to know the right size of nipple shield?

The shield's diameter should closely match the mother's nipple for optimal breastfeeding. Therefore, taking measurements before buying breastfeeding accessories is good because they ensure the right size is purchased.