What Are Nipple Protectors?

A nipple protector is a thin teat-like device that can be used to help babies who struggle to latch and breastfeed. It has holes in the tip that allow milk to flow into a baby’s mouth, and it is often used temporarily to help establish breastfeeding or in some cases to support breastfeeding after infants are previously bottle fed or have switched from one breast to another.

Nipple protectors are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different nipple shapes and dimensions. They are also easy to wash and sanitize, making them an excellent choice for many women who have difficulties with breastfeeding.

While the use of nipple shields can help some women who are having difficulty, there are many reasons why breastfeeding is a challenge for some mothers. One of the most common reasons is a shallow or improper latch that causes painful nipples for both mother and infant. This may be caused by a weak or damaged nipple, a difficult breastfeeding position, or if a baby has been previously introduced to a teat or pacifier and developed a preference for this type of stimulation.

The older types of nipple shields were made of hard plastic or thick rubber, which could restrict how well the breasts were draining and result in a reduced milk supply. However, with the newer softer silicone nipple shields, this does not appear to be as much of a problem. It is important to be sure that the nipple shields are being used correctly and to wash them regularly. They should be washed after each use and sanitized once per day by boiling them for five minutes in water to reduce the risk of bacteria build up. nipple protectors