Image: MomJunction Design Team
If you are struggling with painful nipples and latching difficulties, your healthcare provider may suggest the temporary use of the best nipple shields to help you overcome these challenges. A nipple shield is a thin silicone device that can cover your nipples and areola. If you are new to using a nipple shield, you might be wondering how to choose and use one. To help you with that, here are our reviews of some tried-and-tested nipple shields that you can consider before buying.
Regina Kincaid, an IBCLC and midwife and the reviewer of this article, suggests, “Before choosing a nipple shield, ensure you talk to a lactation consultant to learn how to use one correctly, determine the right size, and ensure it is safe for you and the baby.”
Top Picks
11 Best Nipple Shields
1. Best Medium-Sized: Medela Contact Nipple Shield for Breastfeeding
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 21,632 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
Made from high-quality soft silicone material, this nipple shield from the trusted brand Medela features a unique cut design that allows maximum skin contact between the mother and the baby. It comes in a carrying case to keep it secured and safe. This is a 24mm medium-sized nipple shield and one kit includes two pieces. Medela contact nipple shields can protect the mother’s nipple while the baby is still learning to latch. Check out this review video to learn more about this mom-approved nipple shield.
Pros
- Portable
- BPA-free
- Convenient to use
- Multiple sizes
- Safe storage
Cons
- May give an unpleasant fragrance
- May not be easy to clean
"I was skeptical about this shield's unique design, but it has won me with how comfortably it fits over my nipples. Its thin build also makes it easy for my little one to latch. Besides, it is easy to clean and has proven durable enough to survive being washed regularly."
2. Best For Sensitive Skin: Lansinoh Contact Nipple Shields
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 10,558 fine reviews on Amazon.
The pair has two nipple shields designed to ease nursing difficulties. They are made from ultra-thin silicone to suit even the most sensitive skin. For hygienic and protective storage between usage, put them in a protective case included in your purchase. Available in multiple sizes, this flexible silicone nipple shield measures 24mm. Check out this product testing video to learn more about the reviewer’s experience with using these nipple shields for sensitive nipples.
Pros
- BPA-free, BPS-free
- Ultra-soft
- Ideal nipple shields for latching issues
Cons
- May have less milk flow rate
"I can use these shields tension-free as they are safe for my munchkin. They have made my breastfeeding sessions more comfortable, barring rare occasions when the milk pooled in the nipple. Moreover, thanks to the included case, I find them easy to store hygienically."
Do remember3. Best BPA-Free: Yiyee Nipple Shield
Made from BPA-free and non-toxic material, the Yiyee nipple shield is safe and effective for the mom and the newborn. It has a triangular petal-style design to attach to the areola conveniently. There is a space between the nipple and the pacifier to prevent the baby from biting nipples. It is recommended to replace your nipple shield after three months of use.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Speeds healing
- Lightweight
- Heat-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Skin-friendly
Cons
- Might not work well for mothers producing less breast milk
- May affect milk production
"What I like about these shields is that they imitate the shape and feel of the areola, allowing my baby to feed easily despite my flat nipples. I've observed that the nipples tend to lose their firmness over time. However, their overall functionality makes up for it."
4. Best Washable: Ameda Contact Nipple Shields
The 24mm nipple shields by Ameda are free of BPA and DEHP, ensuring protection for sore and cracked nipples while encouraging comfortable latching for your baby. These ultra-soft shields are made of silicone and feature thinner, more flexible rims for easy application. The firm nipple center provides a good grip and reduces friction.
Pros
- Dishwasher-friendly
- Five-hole design for good milk flow
- Fits well
- Reusable
Cons
- May not stay in place for long
- May not include a pouch or box for storage
"These shields facilitate a good milk flow, making it easier for my baby to suckle. It is slightly thicker than I expected and lacks a cutout shape at the top, but its ability to encourage latching gets my approval. All in all, I consider it a practical choice."
Did You Know?5. Best For Maximum Skin Contact: Cradle Plus Pregnancy Baby And Toddlers Nippleshield And Breast Shell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,445 buyers on Amazon have said the product lives up to the hype.
A complete kit with all the breastfeeding essentials, the Cradle Plus Pregnancy Baby and Toddlers nipple shield protects your sore nipples and enhances breastfeeding, making it a trusted choice of moms. The set includes two super soft nipple shields in a portable storage case and two breast shells to help prevent milk leakage. The breast shell can hold up to two-ounce milk per shell. Made of soft silicone material, these nipple shields for sore nipples adhere to the skin while promoting maximum skin contact between the baby and the mother.
Pros
- Easy to clean and sterilize
- Lead- and phthalate-free
- Does not spill out milk
- Encourages healing of chapped nipples
Cons
- Nipple shields might be hard to latch
"These shields have helped reduce nipple pain when nursing my baby, while the shells hold the excess milk when my breasts leak. They help reduce mess, saving me cleaning time and effort. Though slightly smaller than expected, the set's durability and portability are commendable."
6. Best Easy-To-Maintain: Mam Breastfeeding Nipple Shields
The winged-shaped nipple shields give the mother a better hold while breastfeeding. They have a textured surface, allowing easy airflow, and are soft on the baby’s skin. Available in two counts and 23mm diameter, they can suit any regular nipple. They come in a protective case for easy storage and are easy to clean and maintain as they can be sterilized in a microwave or hot water.
Pros
- BPA- and BPS-free
- Maximizes skin contact
- Anti-slip texture
- Protects sore nipples
- Ultra-thin material
- Easy to carry
Cons
- The nipple shield size may be a tad big
- Has only two openings for the milk flow
"My son’s latch issues have reduced to a large extent since I started using this nipple shield. Its BPA-free build also offers peace of mind, and the carrying case allows me to carry it everywhere."
Quick Tip7. Best Skin-Friendly: Philips Avent Nipple Shields
This medium-sized and mommy-approved nipple shield of 21mm from Philips Avent can help you breastfeed longer and protect your sore and cracked nipples during breastfeeding. These silicone shield covers have a skin-friendly design to allow maximum skin contact between the mother and the child. These premium nipple shields with a storage box are travel-friendly. You can easily sterilize them in a microwave by keeping them in the protective case for three minutes. Take a look at this video link to get more information on the product.
Pros
- Minimizes nipple pain
- Easy to latch
- Odorless
- Portable
Cons
- May not adhere properly
"I like the bow-style design as it provides enough space for my baby's nose and chin. My little one did not resist them, thanks to their tasteless and odorless build. Since they come with a storage box, I can easily use them while traveling."
8. Best With Wide Mouth: Back To Mom Nipple Shield Weaning Kit
If you are looking for nipple shields for weaning that can gradually help your baby get used to natural nipples and reduce their dependence on nipple shields, these can be a suitable solution. The wide mouth and incomplete or cut-out design allow your infant to come into contact with the natural nipple and wean off from the shield smoothly.
Pros
- Skin-like texture
- Encourages skin-to-skin touch
- Three nipple heights for gradual weaning
- Lower chances of clogged ducts
- Latex- and BPA-free silicone
Cons
- Limited size range
- May be stiff for some
"This kit's functional three-step system allowed me to nurse my cracked nipples back to health without the fear of a troublesome weaning-off period. I'd expected the shield to be less rigid, but thanks to its silky texture, it did not cause my baby any discomfort. Plus, its relatively large size helped keep it budge-free."
9. Best Odorless: Haakaa Nippleshield
Haakaa nipple shield is a pack of two nipple shields made from 100% food-grade silicone with humanized design. These mom-tested nipple shields with a cut-out design are round in shape with a semicircular cut on the side to allow maximum skin contact during breastfeeding. The nipple has four holes for smooth milk flow and is ideal for addressing short-term latching issues. Always wash and sterilize them before use.
Pros
- BPA-free, BPS-free
- Odorless
- 100% food-grade silicone
- Curved design
- Lightweight
- Heat-resistant
- Protective case
Cons
- Too smooth to hold
"Keeping these shields put during nursing is a bit challenging for me, but the convenience they offer me with their dishwasher- and microwave-safe build is splendid. I'm also glad that they don't possess any smell."
10. Best Double-Layered: Pea Baby Nippleshield
The flexible silicone nipple shield is 20mm to nurse babies comfortably. This nipple shield for extended nipple protection is double-layered. It has cross holes to help control milk flow and makes breastfeeding easy. The Pea Baby nipple shield fits easily without falling and is available in a one-piece pack. It has a well-designed shape to allow easy suction with enough milk for the baby to suck.
Pros
- Durable design
- Easy to clean
- Food-grade material
- Easy to latch
- Soft and stretchable
Cons
- Does not include case
- May not allow direct breast stimulation, which may affect milk supply
"Thanks to these silicone shields, my inverted nipples no longer stop me from feeding my baby. It took her some time to get used to them owing to their slightly elongated design, but she can suckle successfully now. I also find them helpful in tackling leaks."
11. Best Latex-Free: Ardo Tulips Nipple Shields
These mommy-approved shields by Adro Tulips help address several breastfeeding issues. They are especially suitable nipple shields for flat nipples. As they are ultra-thin and soft, they aid premature babies or babies with tongue-tie latches. Their ridge-free design ensures they stay securely in place without irritating the skin. These are nipple shields for inverted nipples as well, and they come with a case for hygienic storage and to ensure long-term use. Made of soft silicone material, they are odorless, BPA-free, and latex-free.
Pros
- Stretchable outer edges for a secure fit
- Maximize skin-to-skin contact
- Comfortable and painless latch
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- May not stay in place for some
- Might be smaller than expected
"This nipple shield’s abrasion-free design does not irritate my skin, even when I use it while breastfeeding. Plus, the different size options allowed me to choose the right one. The only drawback is its lower-than-expected stickiness, but its efficiency remains unmatched."
What To Look For When Buying A Nipple Shield?
Here are a few points to consider before you choose the best nipple shield.
- Shape: Nipple shields should resemble your nipple shape so your baby can easily latch.
- Size: If you have a large nipple, the size of the nipple shield should correspond to your size; otherwise, they could cause nipple damage and affect milk transfer
- Material:Consider materials that are safe for your babies. It should be made of BPA-free material.
- Brand: Choose a nipple shield from a trusted brand that boasts good reviews. Compromising quality can be risky for both the mother and the child.
- Storage: Look for nipple shields with a case provision to stash them securely and hygienically when not in use.
What Is The Difference Between A Nipple Shield And A Breast Shell?
Doctors recommend nipple shields if your baby cannot latch on well, whereas nipple shells are worn by mothers to help prevent excessive milk leakage. Nipple shells have to be removed before your child starts to breastfeed.
Nipple shields are used as a substitute for encouragement and support breastfeeding. They are the best alternatives for babies who need an extra prompt to start sucking. Available readily in retail stores or your local hospital, you can let your infant latch on easily and protect your nipples from pain. Browse our above article of carefully selected best nipple shields for easy breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I sterilize nipple shields every time?
Sterilize the nipple shield only for the first time. Thereafter, you can clean and rinse the shield with hot water. Allow it to dry completely before use.
2. Should I pump after feeding using a nipple shield?
Yes, you need to pump to ensure the breasts are emptied well. Pump after each time you feed your baby (1).
3. Can nipple shields damage nipples?
No, nipple shields are designed to safeguard your nipples. However, if worn incorrectly, they may irritate your nipples.
4. Do nipple shields reduce milk supply?
Yes, some nipple shields may reduce your milk supply to some extent, as the nipples are not being stimulated directly (2). However, you can stop using them when the pain in your nipples subsides.
5. How often should I replace nipple shields?
Replace the nipple shield frequently because the longer it is used, the harder it becomes. Nipple shields are meant for short-time use only.
6. How can I stick nipple shields?
Throw the nipple shield in warm water before using them. You can also turn them inside out and then roll them back to position.
7. How can I find the right nipple shield size?
Measure the base of the nipple, excluding the areola, in diameter. You may pick the right size of the nipple shield, depending on this measurement.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Nipple shields can help make your breastfeeding journey more manageable. They are sometimes recommended by lactation experts following an assessment. So, Vibha Navarathna, our writer and reviewer of baby and nursing products, has put together this post on the best nipple shields for breastfeeding to help you choose the right one. Vibha has selected these nipple shields after careful consideration and research on their quality and customer satisfaction levels. She has also provided a buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Being a new mother has its challenges, one of them being painful breastfeeding and issues with latching. A nipple shield can sometimes make feeding easier, not only for the mother but also for the baby. When choosing a nipple shield, ensure it is tried and tested, and consider the breast and nipple size and shape so that it fits well. You should also consider the material and ensure they are chemical-free, soft, and stretchable nipple shields with adjustable fit for easy and safe use. We hope our list of the best nipple shields can help you understand the available options, safety guidelines, and usage.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Using Nipple Shields?
Nipple shields are breastfeeding accessories that provide temporary support and help overcome breastfeeding challenges in specific scenarios. Designed to mimic the feel of a breast, they offer a temporary solution for mothers and babies to continue breastfeeding with comfort and success. Refer to the infographic below to learn how nipple shields can make breastfeeding an effortless experience.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Nipple Shields
https://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/Gyn/Lactation/NippleShields.pdf - The use of nipple shields: a review
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2015.00236/full - Nipple Shields – A Patient Guide
https://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/publication/download/nipple-shields-a-patient-guide-v1-1/
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