Does A Nipple Shield Have Adverse Effects On An Infant's Health?

Posted on Sat, 17 Jun 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 17 Jun 2017 Answered on

Mon, 10 Jul 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Dear doctor,

My son is now 19 years old. He used to latch on perfectly well on mother's breast to drink milk, but around 13 days he became very cranky and mother was having pain while nursing. The lactation nurse suggested to use Nipple Shield to avoid pain, the kid started to latch well and feed well.

But we are now worried whether the kid got used to nipple shield? He does not latch on well without nipple shield. Are there any ill consequences of using nipple shield for long time and the kid getting used to it completely?

Please guide us, we are worried!

Thanks,
xxx XXXXXXX x

Answered by Dr. Deepti Verma (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No adverse effect

Detailed Answer:
Hi dear,
I have gone through your question and understand the concerns.
Nipple shield has no adverse effects on the baby or his health.
It is made to give relief the mother and do assist the baby in feeding.
You can gradually wean him off the shield.
Initially for 2-3 feeds a day, gradually for throughout the day.
Do not worry as it has no adverse effects on both of the two.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Regards
Dr Deepti Verma
OBGYN
Maternal and fetal medicine specialist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy