The automatic sampling shield: A device for sampling suckled breast milk

Reexamination of ultra‐thin nipple shield use, infant growth and maternal satisfaction

“…There may not be a need for women to pump when using nipple shields, as this study and its preceding pilot study (Chertok et al 2006) found that there is no significant difference in milk transfer or infant weight gain for infants whose mothers pumped compared to those who did not pump while using the nipple shield. Additionally, two studies have shown that prolactin levels are not significantly reduced with nipple shield use , Chertok et al 2006) thereby challenging the idea that milk production is reduced with shield use (Woolridge et al 1980, Jackson et al 1987, Auerbach 1990, Morland-Schultz & Hill 2005. Therefore, education regarding nipple shield use should include a statement that pumping and frequent weight checks are not necessary for shield using women unless indicated.…”

“…Reexamination of nipple shield use, infant growth and maternal satisfaction transfer with the older style nipple shields (Woolridge et al 1980, Jackson et al 1987. In contrast, a study of preterm infant use of ultra-thin nipple shields found improved milk transfer with nipple shield use (Meier et al 2000).…”

“…1980, Amatayakul et al. 1987, Jackson et al. 1987, Auerbach 1990), while more recent reports and studies reported successful breastfeeding outcomes (Nicholson 1993, Bodley & Powers 1996, Brigham 1996, Elliot 1996, Wilson‐Clay 1996, Meier et al.…”

“…The use of nipple shields has been a debated issue since some older studies reported reduced breast milk transfer with nipple shield use (Woolridge et al 1980, Jackson et al 1987, Auerbach 1990, while more recent reports and studies reported successful breastfeeding outcomes (Nicholson 1993, Bodley & Powers 1996, Brigham 1996, Elliot 1996, Wilson-Clay 1996, Meier et al 2000, Powers & Tapia 2004, Chertok et al 2006. The older studies employed methods that may have limited the research findings such as small sample size, sampling conducted prior to established milk supply, lack of maternal-infant experience with nipple shield use prior to study participation and thicker versions of the nipple shield.…”

Does breastfeeding method influence infant weight gain?

“…Babies feeding from both breasts at each feed receive more milk than babies feeding from one breast,16 and those feeding for shorter average lengths experience increased weight gain and other positive outcomes 17 18. The little information available on the physiology of prolonged feeds suggests abnormally slowed flow patterns,3 19 20 lower milk volume production,21 and possible attenuation of the let-down reflex 12…”