Do I Need a Nipple Shield? Pros, Cons, and When to Get Help
- Chelsea Lactation & Postpartum Care
- Sep 24
- 2 min read
Nipple shields are a breastfeeding tool that often come with confusion. Some parents swear by them, others are afraid to use them, and many aren’t sure what they are at all. With the right guidance, a shield can be a helpful tool, especially in the early days of breastfeeding.
What Is a Nipple Shield?
A nipple shield is a thin silicone cover that fits over your nipple during breastfeeding. Babies latch onto the shield instead of directly onto your skin, but milk passes through small holes at the tip.
Shields are generally a last resort - used only after a careful feeding evaluation by a skilled lactation professional and after other strategies have been tried.
When a Nipple Shield Might Help
Nipple shields may be useful in specific situations:
Premature or small babies: Shields can act like “training wheels,” helping babies practice sucking while enjoying time at the breast.
Strong bottle preference: If baby has developed a bottle preference, a shield provides a familiar feel to encourage interest at the breast.
Nipple trauma or pain: If nipples are cracked, sore, or bleeding, shields can protect them while baby practices breastfeeding.
Flat/inverted nipples or a high palate: Some babies need extra palatal stimulation, which a shield can provide.
Always use a nipple shield with professional guidance to ensure your baby is transferring milk effectively and the underlying feeding challenges are addressed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✨ Can reduce pain and protect sore nipples while they heal.
✨ Can be a temporary bridge while you and your baby learn together.
✨ Helps some babies latch and feed more effectively.
Cons:
⚠️ Can be tricky to apply and keep on during a feed
⚠️ Doesn't address underlying feeding challenges on its own.
⚠️ May be hard to wean from without a plan and good support
⚠️ Milk supply may decrease over time — monitoring is essential.
When to Get Help
A nipple shield can be a helpful tool — but it’s not a first-line solution. With professional support, it can protect sore nipples, help babies learn to latch, and provide relief when feeds are painful or stressful.
If you’re considering a nipple shield, reaching out to a lactation consultant can help you:
Use it safely and effectively
Ensure your baby is transferring milk well
Create a plan to address the root feeding challenge
Eventually transition off the shield if appropriate and desired.
✨ Need support? Book an in-home or virtual breastfeeding consult today, and we’ll troubleshoot together.
