If you are struggling with painful nipples and latching difficulties, your healthcare provider may suggest the temporary use of the best nipple shields to help you overcome these challenges. A nipple shield is a thin silicone device that can cover your nipples and areola. If you are new to using a nipple shield, you might be wondering how to choose and use one. To help you with that, here are our reviews of some tried-and-tested nipple shields that you can consider before buying.
Regina Kincaid, an IBCLC and midwife and the reviewer of this article, suggests, “Before choosing a nipple shield, ensure you talk to a lactation consultant to learn how to use one correctly, determine the right size, and ensure it is safe for you and the baby.”
11 Best Nipple Shields
4.4
Image: Medela
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 21,632 fine reviews on Amazon.
Made from high-quality soft silicone material, this nipple shield from the trusted brand Medela features a unique cut design that allows maximum skin contact between the mother and the baby. It comes in a carrying case to keep it secured and safe. This is a 24mm medium-sized nipple shield and one kit includes two pieces. Medela contact nipple shields can protect the mother’s nipple while the baby is still learning to latch. Check out this review video to learn more about this mom-approved nipple shield.
Package Dimensions: 9.61 x 7.44 x 4.92 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds
4.3
Image: Lansinoh
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 10,558 reviews on Amazon.
The pair has two nipple shields designed to ease nursing difficulties. They are made from ultra-thin silicone to suit even the most sensitive skin. For hygienic and protective storage between usage, put them in a protective case included in your purchase. Available in multiple sizes, this flexible silicone nipple shield measures 24mm. Check out this product testing video to learn more about the reviewer’s experience with using these nipple shields for sensitive nipples.
Hair Type: Thick | Product Dimensions: 5 x 2 x 8 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds
Do remember
Unless directed otherwise by the doctor, avoid using nipple shields during the first two to three days after birth to offer breasts proper stimulation for milk production ( 3 ).
Made from BPA-free and non-toxic material, the Yiyee nipple shield is safe and effective for the mom and the newborn. It has a triangular petal-style design to attach to the areola conveniently. There is a space between the nipple and the pacifier to prevent the baby from biting nipples. It is recommended to replace your nipple shield after three months of use.
Material: Silicone | Item Weight: 1.44 ounces | Product Dimensions: 3.75 x 5.1 x 8.2 inches
Best Washable:
Ameda Contact Nipple Shields3.9
Image: Ameda
The 24mm nipple shields by Ameda are free of BPA and DEHP, ensuring protection for sore and cracked nipples while encouraging comfortable latching for your baby. These ultra-soft shields are made of silicone and feature thinner, more flexible rims for easy application. The firm nipple center provides a good grip and reduces friction.
Material: Silicone | Item Weight: 0.32 ounces | Product Dimensions: 3 x 0.25 x 2.25 inches
Did You Know?
A nipple shield can interfere with proper latch, causing milk to stagnate in the breast and lead to infection. Therefore, its guided use is necessary.
4
Image: Cradle Plus
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Do not miss out on this product that has earned 1,445 positive reviews on Amazon.
A complete kit with all the breastfeeding essentials, the Cradle Plus Pregnancy Baby and Toddlers nipple shield protects your sore nipples and enhances breastfeeding, making it a trusted choice of moms. The set includes two super soft nipple shields in a portable storage case and two breast shells to help prevent milk leakage. The breast shell can hold up to two-ounce milk per shell. Made of soft silicone material, these nipple shields for sore nipples adhere to the skin while promoting maximum skin contact between the baby and the mother.
Item Weight: 2.39 ounces
The winged-shaped nipple shields give the mother a better hold while breastfeeding. They have a textured surface, allowing easy airflow, and are soft on the baby’s skin. Available in two counts and 23mm diameter, they can suit any regular nipple. They come in a protective case for easy storage and are easy to clean and maintain as they can be sterilized in a microwave or hot water.
Item Weight: 0.64 ounces | Product Dimensions: 4.7 x 1.9 x 3.8 inches
Quick Tip
Applying water or nipple cream around the edges of the nipple shield can help it stick to the breast and maintain a proper seal.
4.4
Image: Philips Avent
This medium-sized and mommy-approved nipple shield of 21mm from Philips Avent can help you breastfeed longer and protect your sore and cracked nipples during breastfeeding. These silicone shield covers have a skin-friendly design to allow maximum skin contact between the mother and the child. These premium nipple shields with a storage box are travel-friendly. You can easily sterilize them in a microwave by keeping them in the protective case for three minutes. Take a look at this video link to get more information on the product.
Item Weight: 3 ounces | Product Dimensions: 4 x 2.3 x 4 inches
Best With Wide Mouth:
Back To Mom Nipple Shield Weaning Kit2.5
Image: Back To Mom
If you are looking for nipple shields for weaning that can gradually help your baby get used to natural nipples and reduce their dependence on nipple shields, these can be a suitable solution. The wide mouth and incomplete or cut-out design allow your infant to come into contact with the natural nipple and wean off from the shield smoothly.
Item Weight: 0.317 ounces | Package Dimensions: 5.47 x 3.54 x 0.79 inches
3.9
Image: Haakaa
Haakaa nipple shield is a pack of two nipple shields made from 100% food-grade silicone with humanized design. These mom-tested nipple shields with a cut-out design are round in shape with a semicircular cut on the side to allow maximum skin contact during breastfeeding. The nipple has four holes for smooth milk flow and is ideal for addressing short-term latching issues. Always wash and sterilize them before use.
Material: Silicone | Color: Clear | Item Weight: 0.48 ounces | Product Dimensions: 2.05 x 3.58 x 4.92 inches
The flexible silicone nipple shield is 20mm to nurse babies comfortably. This nipple shield for extended nipple protection is double-layered. It has cross holes to help control milk flow and makes breastfeeding easy. The Pea Baby nipple shield fits easily without falling and is available in a one-piece pack. It has a well-designed shape to allow easy suction with enough milk for the baby to suck.
Item Weight: 15.9 ounces | Product Dimensions: 4.92 x 5.91 x 7.91 inches
4.1
Image: Ardo
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.
These mommy-approved shields by Adro Tulips help address several breastfeeding issues. They are especially suitable nipple shields for flat nipples. As they are ultra-thin and soft, they aid premature babies or babies with tongue-tie latches. Their ridge-free design ensures they stay securely in place without irritating the skin. These are nipple shields for inverted nipples as well, and they come with a case for hygienic storage and to ensure long-term use. Made of soft silicone material, they are odorless, BPA-free, and latex-free.
Material: Silicone | Item Weight: 1.76 ounces | Product Dimensions: 1.54 x 2.87 x 3.74 inches
What To Look For When Buying A Nipple Shield?
Here are a few points to consider before you choose the best nipple shield.
What Is The Difference Between A Nipple Shield And A Breast Shell?
Doctors recommend nipple shields if your baby cannot latch on well, whereas nipple shells are worn by mothers to help prevent excessive milk leakage. Nipple shells have to be removed before your child starts to breastfeed.
Nipple shields are used as a substitute for encouragement and support breastfeeding. They are the best alternatives for babies who need an extra prompt to start sucking. Available readily in retail stores or your local hospital, you can let your infant latch on easily and protect your nipples from pain. Browse our above article of carefully selected best nipple shields for easy breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I sterilize nipple shields every time?
Sterilize the nipple shield only for the first time. Thereafter, you can clean and rinse the shield with hot water. Allow it to dry completely before use.
2. Should I pump after feeding using a nipple shield?
Yes, you need to pump to ensure the breasts are emptied well. Pump after each time you feed your baby (1).
3. Can nipple shields damage nipples?
No, nipple shields are designed to safeguard your nipples. However, if worn incorrectly, they may irritate your nipples.
4. Do nipple shields reduce milk supply?
Yes, some nipple shields may reduce your milk supply to some extent, as the nipples are not being stimulated directly (2). However, you can stop using them when the pain in your nipples subsides.
5. How often should I replace nipple shields?
Replace the nipple shield frequently because the longer it is used, the harder it becomes. Nipple shields are meant for short-time use only.
6. How can I stick nipple shields?
Throw the nipple shield in warm water before using them. You can also turn them inside out and then roll them back to position.
7. How can I find the right nipple shield size?
Measure the base of the nipple, excluding the areola, in diameter. You may pick the right size of the nipple shield, depending on this measurement.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Nipple shields can help make your breastfeeding journey more manageable. They are sometimes recommended by lactation experts following an assessment. So, Vibha Navarathna, our writer and reviewer of baby and nursing products, has put together this post on the best nipple shields for breastfeeding to help you choose the right one. Vibha has selected these nipple shields after careful consideration and research on their quality and customer satisfaction levels. She has also provided a buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Being a new mother has its challenges, one of them being painful breastfeeding and issues with latching. A nipple shield can sometimes make feeding easier, not only for the mother but also for the baby. When choosing a nipple shield, ensure it is tried and tested, and consider the breast and nipple size and shape so that it fits well. You should also consider the material and ensure they are chemical-free, soft, and stretchable nipple shields with adjustable fit for easy and safe use. We hope our list of the best nipple shields can help you understand the available options, safety guidelines, and usage.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Using Nipple Shields?
Nipple shields are breastfeeding accessories that provide temporary support and help overcome breastfeeding challenges in specific scenarios. Designed to mimic the feel of a breast, they offer a temporary solution for mothers and babies to continue breastfeeding with comfort and success. Refer to the infographic below to learn how nipple shields can make breastfeeding an effortless experience.
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Regina qualified as a midwife in 2005 in Germany and has since worked in maternity care in England and Ireland. She achieved stage 1 of the UNICEF Baby Friendly accreditation as infant feeding lead midwife at Ealing Hospital in London and worked in the lactation team of the National Maternity Hospital in Dublin, Ireland. She did her Neonatal Examination Course... more
Vibha is a coder turned content writer. She holds a Masters degree in Computer Applications from Osmania University, Hyderabad and a certificate in 'Introduction To Child Psychology'. Her passion for writing fresh and informative content made her a full-time writer in 2019. Holding certifications in content writing and creative writing, she writes on electronics, baby and health products for MomJunction.... more
Wedetso Chirhah holds a masters degree in English Literature from Mangalore University and has over 13 years of experience in content. He has written content for more than 15 B2B websites and edited school books before joining MomJunction as an editor. Wedetso ensures the articles meet the highest editorial standards. He enjoys making content understandable and relatable to readers, and... more
Rohit Garoo is a writer-turned-editor with over 9 years of experience in content writing, editing, and content marketing. He did his bachelors in Science at St. Xavier's College, Hyderabad, and masters in Business Administration at Osmania University. Also, he holds a certificate in Developmental Psychology from The University of Queensland and loves to expand his knowledge through certifications in various... more
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