In this world, every female breast and nipple comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. In general, women with small breasts produced about the same amount of milk as women with large breasts. It is believed that most babies have come into contact with the breast of their breastfeeding mother. Although breast size and shape rarely affect a mother’s ability to produce milk, nipple size and shape can make it easier or more difficult for some babies to breastfeed.

What Is A Nipple Protector?

A nipple protector is a breast-feeding product for special situations. It is a thin, soft layer of rubber or silicone covering the areola and the nipple, also known as the imitation nipple. It is designed to help mothers whose nipple size or shape pose a real barrier to breastfeeding to make their babies more likely to suckle, and to reduce the risk of papilloma among mothers. In these cases, it is beneficial to use a nipple shield when breastfeeding.

When Can I Use A Nipple Protector?

If your baby can’t hold your breasts tight and one or both of your nipples are flat or upside down, try gently pulling them out with a breast pump before each feeding. If this doesn’t work, you need to consider using a nipple protector. However, before using a nipple protector, be sure to explain to your health care provider the correct way to use a nipple protector, as nipple protector are often used as a last resort. You should wear the device and breastfeed only under the care and supervision of a doctor, lactation consultant or other person with relevant experience. If not properly worn to avoid damaging your nipples. Improper use of nipple covers can lead to inadequate milk supply, weight loss, and breast problems.

  • Babies difficulty latching on

Pacifier shields are sometimes used to help newborns who have trouble sucking pacifiers. It may be easier for a baby to grab the shield than the breast.

  • Premature babies

Nipple protector are perfect for premature babies. Some premature babies do well when they learn to use a pacifier shield. It helps their little mouth catch the nipple which is a little too big for them. At the same time, the preservation of the pacifier shield greatly reduces the precious energy of premature babies. Then, as they grow, they can be weaned from the shield and begin feeding directly from their bare breasts.

  • Babies born tongue-tied

Babies born tongue-tied may not be able to hold on to their breasts. If the baby does not suck properly, he may not get enough breast milk and gain weight well. Loose tongue connections can also lead to painful nipples. In this case, a pacifier shield may be helpful.

  • Inverted, retracted or flat nipples

Nipple protector can help to pull out flat, retracted or inverted nipples, making it easier for the baby to hold on to the breasts.

  • Nipple pain

A nipple protector can protect the mother when they facing nipple pain. If you can’t breastfeed because your nipple is sore or ruptured, use a nipple protector to help you breastfeed.

  • From bottle to breast

Bottle protectors can help foster infants or children who are used to bottles, switch bottles and become more likely to start breastfeeding.

As A Postpartum Mom, What Size Pacifier Should I Wear?

A nipple protector similar to a baby bottle tip used by a baby or child, is distributed in a variety of sizes. Either your health care provider or a breastfeeding counselor will help you choose the right nipple shield for you and your baby. Most newborns are best served with a “small” pacifier shield. If both your pacifier and the shield on the pacifier fit into your baby’s mouth, you know you’re using the right size pacifier. If the shield is too large, your baby will have a hard time keeping a proper latch and may vomit. If your nipples are touching the raised part of the shield, this indicates that the pacifier shield is too small.

How To Use The Nipple Protector Correctly?

Here are the steps for the nipple protector we provide:

  • Soak in warm water first

  • Gently pull the nipple protector toward the breast, pulling the nipple and areola into the raised part of the shield

  • Use your pacifier shield to tickle the baby’s nose

  • Hold the pacifier between your thumb and other fingers and hold the baby against your breast. Some nipple protector have a “break,” while others are completely round. If you are using a shield with an incision, place the shield in the position where the incision is made, so that the incision is under the baby’s nose

  • Remove the nipple protector when the baby starts sucking and swallowing

  • After each use, rinse the pacifier shield with cold water, then rinse it with hot soapy water and rinse thoroughly

  • Remember to keep the nipple shield in a dry place and store clean

How Long Should I Use The Nipple Protector?

Once your baby is able to suckle itself and breastfeed effectively, the nipple protector can no longer be used. Nipple protector is for short term use only.

When using the nipple protector, weigh your baby frequently at least once a week. Because pacifier shields interfere with the delivery of breast milk in some babies, regular weight checks will help ensure your baby is fully fed.