Nipple Shield?

So I have been using the nipple shield since I started BF ( about 3 1/2 weeks so far).

Can I continue to use them for the next several months?

Or do I need to get my DD use to BF without them??

I seem to not have any supply issues..and seem to have a ton of milk . I read though that nipple shields could hurt your supply??


Thanks for you help~~

Re: Nipple Shield?

unfortunately I didn't know about them, when I needed. but after a lot of frustration and giving up on BF, and then vowing to do more for #2 when its time, I researched nipple shields.

I think you have to try without it, and see if it works. If it doesn't keep trying at least once a day, but as many times as you feel good about it.

Re: Nipple Shield?

I used one with DS due to a flat nipple. I found it extremely helpful but became annoying to clean and use all the time so I just didnt use it one day and he did fine. I think if you want to keep using it I dont see an issue at all. I have never heard of it hurting your milk supply.

Re: Nipple Shield?

They *can* hurt your supply over time.... I would start to wean DD from it over the next few weeks. I used nipple shields too and was sooooo hesitant to give them up, but in the end, it wasn't that bad and he transitioned to the direct nipple just fine.

Re: Nipple Shield?

Re: Nipple Shield?

They could hurt your supply, and if you pump after, realistically you can keep using them. But the babies do get the hang of it and it is really easier without. Weaning wasn't half as hard as I thought. By about 4 weeks old, she didn't need the nipple shield any more!