Modern technology

A nipple shield is a type of guard which is used in the time of breastfeeding. It is a nipple-shaped thing which is to cover the nipple area of the breast during breastfeeding. Nowadays these nipple shields are made with top quality silicone which is soft, flexible, and thin and irritation free. It has a hole at the end of the nipple section through which milk passes. This shield is mainly for those mothers who have problems in time of breastfeeding. These are mainly used for comforts during breastfeeding. These are prescribed by the doctors too.

Usage of a nipple shield

Nipple shields are used for various reasons. They are-


  1. Many women have small, and inverted nipples which make a difficult for the baby to get milk from the breast. Nipple shield will help the baby to function the milk from the nipple and helps during breastfeeding.
  2. In the case of small, weak, and sick babies have no power to latching, nipple shield makes the latching straightforward, and smooth.
  3. Babies who are habituated with the bottle teat, nipple shield will help them to more aid with the transitions to breastfeeding.
  4. During breastfeeding the breast of the mother is become sore and cracked, nipple shield will protect the nipples form the soring.


Disadvantages of a nipple shield

As the breast is a very sensitive part of human body, so it can get harmed very easily. There are many disadvantages of a nipple shield. They are-
  • It can decrease the quantity of the milk, as the nipple is not being directly stimulated.
  • It can also increase the chances of the developing of the blocked milk ducts.
  • It can decrease the milk transfer from the breast as a result, the use of excess nipple shield of it is difficult to go off the baby from this. It makes a bad habit and also makes problems in future.


Instructions regarding use of Nipple Shields

Nipple shields are made with soft, flexible silicone which is very much easy to carry and easy to use. It is recommended by the doctor after some days giving birth to the baby it can use. It should be cleaned on a daily basis before and after breastfeeding.


Conclusion

Through examining the employment of Mammilla shields, more insight is provided on the advantages and drawbacks of this observe, so permitting clinicians and researchers to handle enhancements on areas that will benefit mothers and infants the most. A nipple shield undermined mothers’ confidence and was a barrier to a ‘closer’ and tranquil breastfeeding however was conjointly thought as a short resolution and a rescue. Hence, it is very important that the mother and baby’s own particular needs are taken into account, in a person-centred way, and on an ongoing basis and that the imperative to establish breastfeeding should not take precedence over the relational aspect. There are many disadvantages of using nipple shield after childbirth. It has many side effects and harms the breasts.