Breastfeeding is meant to be the most natural thing in the world, but it doesn’t always come easily for a lot of new moms. While perseverance will eventually get you and your little one into a groove, a little extra help from an accessory like a Best nipple shield can make things easier until that happens.
Nipple shields are designed to give you some extra room for a better latch when breastfeeding. They can also protect sore nipples from getting irritated and uncomfortable during breastfeeding sessions. They’re usually made from soft, flexible materials that’re easy to clean and sterilize so you can use them again and again. Most of the nipple shields on this list are made from silicone, which is both hypoallergenic and flexible enough to fit a wide variety of nipple sizes. Some of them also feature additional features, such as a dip for skin-to-skin contact or four holes that are great for controlling the flow of milk during feedings.
The BPNHNA Silicone Contact Nipple Shield is a breastfeeding aid that’s made from BPA-free and food-grade silicone. It comes with three different sizes – 16, 20, and 24 millimeters – to accommodate a range of nipple diameters. This nipple shield is slightly thicker and more pliable than others, which gives you some flexibility in positioning it over the nipple. It’s also a good choice for those with short nipples because it helps to draw out the nipple and give baby a bigger area to latch on to during breastfeeding sessions.
This nipple shield is also great for those who have an overactive letdown that leaves their nipples sputtering. It has four small holes that are designed to control the flow of milk during a feed and can be used alongside a traditional breastfeeding nipple cover. It’s a little harder to grip onto than some other options, but a dab of nipple cream or a warm water soak can help you keep it in place.
A few things to remember when using a nipple shield: Don’t use it for too long, as baby may become reliant on it and refuse to latch on to a bare nipple. Also, don’t slip it back off while breastfeeding, as this can cause pinching and nipple damage. When you’re ready to remove the nipple shield, wait for baby to have a wide-open mouth before bringing it away. And finally, don’t forget to rinse and sterilize it after every use. If you don’t, it can harbor germs and cause infection. To sanitize the nipple shield, just drop it into boiling hot water for five minutes. You can then dry and store it in a clean, covered container until its next use.