Although Motherhood is something that comes natural to all mothers, there are certain things that sometimes they need help with. One of them is Breastfeeding. And as beautiful as this phase is, breastfeeding has its difficulties like latching, which is the most common. To overcome this problem, Breast shields are the perfect solution.
It is very important for mothers who are going to use them to know the right way of using and learn some of the basics about it.
In this blog, we are going to discuss everything related to breast shields and their usage for nursing mothers.
What are Breast Shields for breastfeeding (Nipple Shields)?
A breast shield is a flexible silicone nipple that serves as an excellent breastfeeding accessory, helping moms overcome the common breastfeeding challenges.
Made of ultra-thin, super-soft, silicone material, these shields rest over the nipple when placed against the breast. There are holes at the tip of it, so that milk can flow through to the baby’s mouth.
Although they are really effective nipple shields are considered to be a short-term solution and be used until baby start breastfeeding properly.
Make sure to use the shield correctly otherwise, baby may get less milk.
How they help in breastfeeding of baby?
Nipple or Breast shields are simply used in cases when mothers are having difficulty breastfeeding.
They provide a definitive shape to mom’s nipple, making it easier for the baby to latch onto and can start sucking.
It is used when the baby is having trouble latching, one or both of the mother’s nipples are flat or inverted, have a cracked nipple, etc.
For mother’s who have cracked or pained nipples, a breast shield serves as a temporary barrier so that the baby can still breastfeed while allowing mom’s nipples some time to heal.
Directions to use breast shield?
- First, Soak the shield in warm water.
- Gently, stretch it and place it on your breast, such that the nipple comes into the raised portion of the shield.
- While holding the shield in place, with your thumb and finger, bring your baby toward your breast.
- In case of shields with a cut-out, once your baby starts to suckle and swallow, remove it.
- After every use, wash the breast shield in hot, soapy water and rinse well.
Tips when breastfeeding with breast shield
Women who are breastfeeding using breast shields will definitely find it effective and efficient. But there are a couple of things they should look out for when using nipple shields:
- Carefully assess your baby for adequate intake, while using a shield
- Listen for frequent baby’s swallowing while feeding
- Ensure good positioning and latch
- Wait for the baby to open his mouth wide, before attempting him to latch on
- Before feeding, make sure to pump a few minutes
- Breastfeed frequently
- while using the shield, weigh your baby frequently to check whether it has interfered with milk transfer.
Medela Breast Shields: PersonalFit breast shields
The power of Mother’s milk is timeless and with that in mind, TabletShablet brings to you a brand that is catering to all of the mother’s and baby’s needs.
Medela has been manufacturing breastfeeding and nursing products like Medela Breast Pumps, shields, etc., since 1961, enhancing mother and baby’s health through the life-giving benefits of Mother’s milk.
Medela PersonalFit breast shields are made from BPA-free materials, to ensure no harm comes to your baby’s health. These breastfeeding shields helps optimize your milk flow and are available in five different sizes – to ensure the perfect fit.
The right size of the breast shield ensures difficulty free and effective breastfeeding.
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FAQs:
Yes, breast shields are really effective, as they help moms overcome the common breastfeeding challenges like when the baby is having trouble latching, one or both of the mother’s nipples are flat or inverted, or they have a cracked nipple, etc.
They help provide a definitive shape to mom’s nipple, making it easier for the baby to latch onto.
Breast shields are used to help mothers to aid in breastfeeding, when they are having problems like the baby is having trouble latching, one or both of the mother’s nipples are flat or inverted, or they have a cracked nipple, etc.
It is also used in case of premature babies to effectively breastfeed them.
Breast shields gives a definitive shape to mom’s nipple, making it easier for the baby to latch onto and start sucking. For mothers who have cracked or pained nipples, a breast shield serves as a temporary barrier so that the baby can still breastfeed while allowing mom’s nipples some time to heal.
You can buy breast shields from TabletShablet, we have a range of breast shields from well-known brand like Medela, Pigeon, which are of great quality and are safe for both mother and the baby.
Ideally, breast shields should be replaced every 6 months. However, be on a look out for any cracks, tears, or warping because that could indicate that the breast shield needs to be replaced sooner.
It is necessary to wash the breast shield in hot, soapy water, after every use and rinse it well. Also, make sure to sterilize it at least once a day, as it will prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and germs.
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