Breast nipples are central to the process of breastfeeding, serving as the point where a baby latches to draw milk from the breast. Effectively using the breast for feeding primarily involves achieving a proper latch, which may sometimes be assisted by tools like nipple shields.
The Role of the Nipple in Breastfeeding
During breastfeeding, the baby doesn't just suck on the nipple tip. For an effective feed, the baby needs to take a significant portion of the areola (the dark area around the nipple) into their mouth along with the nipple itself.
- Latching: The baby opens wide, brings their head to the breast, and takes the nipple and areola deeply into their mouth.
- Stimulation: The action of the baby's mouth and tongue compressing the nipple and areola stimulates nerves that trigger the let-down reflex, releasing milk from the milk ducts within the breast.
- Milk Transfer: The baby uses a wave-like motion of their tongue to express milk from the milk ducts and swallow it.
A good latch ensures the baby gets enough milk, stimulates milk production, and helps prevent nipple pain or damage for the mother.
When Nipple Aids Might Be Needed
Sometimes, challenges arise that can make latching directly onto the nipple difficult. These might include:
- Flat or inverted nipples that are hard for the baby to grasp.
- A baby with latching difficulties due to prematurity, tongue tie, or other oral anatomy variations.
- Severe nipple pain or damage.
In such cases, a nipple shield may be recommended as a temporary aid.
Using Breast Nipples with a Nipple Shield
A nipple shield is a flexible, silicone cover placed over the nipple and areola before feeding. It creates a firmer or more defined target for the baby to latch onto.
When using a nipple shield:
- The shield is centered over the nipple and applied firmly to the breast so it adheres.
- The baby is brought to the breast and encouraged to latch onto the nipple shield, taking part of the breast tissue underneath it as well.
- According to guidance, during this process, the baby should be "snuggling up against the skin not the plastic of the shield." This indicates the baby's mouth is covering the shield and part of the breast, ensuring good contact.
- A key sign of a proper latch when using a shield, just like with direct feeding, is the baby's chin pressing into the breast. This positioning is important because "if the baby is latched on well with the chin pressing in then the nose will be free from the breast. Anyway." This allows the baby to breathe comfortably while feeding effectively.
Nipple shields are generally intended for short-term use under the guidance of a healthcare provider or lactation consultant, who can help address the underlying latch issues and transition back to direct breastfeeding when possible.
By understanding the basic function of the nipple and the potential use of aids like nipple shields, parents can better navigate the breastfeeding journey.
