The Effect of Nipple Shields on Maternal Milk Volume

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

“…1987, 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.…”

“…As health care providers, we should work to protect breastfeeding and to reduce use of artificial supplementation when not medically indicated. As such, messages given to women regarding nipple shield use should not include the threat of compromised milk production (Morland‐Schultz & Hill 2005, Riordan 2005), decreased milk transfer (Auerbach 1990), or the risk of insufficient infant weight gain that require frequent growth checks (Auerbach 1990) as these risks have been challenged by updated research and the newer design of the ultra‐thin nipple shield. Additionally, practices such as obtaining informed consent for nipple shield use (Auerbach 1990, Riordan 2005) but not for formula use may threaten exclusive breastfeeding facilitated by accessories such as the nipple shield.…”

“…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. 2000, Powers & Tapia 2004, Chertok 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.…”

Prevention of and Therapies for Nipple Pain: A Systematic Review

“…Although the idea of protecting the nipple is a good principle, nipple shields can be hazardous to infant health. The clinician should be aware that not all nipple shields are created equal (Woolridge, Baum, & Drewett, 1980) and that infant milk intake can be compromised (Auerbach, 1990;Woolridge et al, 1980) as well as the mother's milk supply.…”