In addition to the internal diameter of the hole your nipple will go in, there are a few other dimensions to keep in mind. Nipple Shields vary in length (the height of the cone), tip size, & taper, all of which can change how well your baby can feed with the nipple shield and how comfortable it feels for you. At first, glance, finding the right nipple shield size can feel intimidating. Between the different sizes available on the market, it can be difficult to determine which size will fit best. Your nipple size and shape affects how your baby will latch. Finding the right size will not only ensure you are comfortable, but it also ensures the nipple shield is efficient in helping the baby feed. Example: Your nipples measure 15 x16 mm. Your nipple shield size would be 20 mm. For inverted nipples, you can trial 18-20 mm nipple shields. The shield is too small if mom’s nipple expands and fills the entire tip of the shield or if it pulls through the holes on the tip (ouch!),” Peterson explains. “The shield is too large if there is lots of space between mom’s nipple and the shield, or if baby is unable to latch onto the nipple and areola.” If you’re unsure what size you need, talk to your lactation consultant. They’ll guide you on selecting the correct size and even demonstrate how to put on a nipple shield. How does a nipple shield work?

Nipple shields differ from pump flanges ( also called breast shields) & they differ from nipple protectors & everters. The primary purpose of nipple shields is to allow more effective, less painful nursing at the breast.It should feel snug around your areola, and your nipple should be deep into the nipple area of the shield. Your nipple should fit comfortably without scraping the sides. There are no contraindications to nipple shield use, though there are things to consider before buying.

Your nipple shield will come with instructions you can follow. If you’re working with a lactation consultant, ask them to show you how to put on the nipple shield. How should a nipple shield fit? Turning your nipple shield inside out before applying helps draw your nipple into the cone-shaped area of the shield better. There is variation in texture & rigidity even among the super-thin shields. Some are very soft & pliable, whereas others don't compress easily under suction. Weaning off a nipple shield can be quite the feat, and in some cases, without proper oversight & follow-up, nipple shield cans worsen milk supply or transfer issues. During the first few weeks of use, we usually recommend that you pump after feedings to ensure good breast drainage, which may be overwhelming if breastfeeding is already stressful and time-consuming.For parents who wish to breastfeed, using a nipple shield can let them continue breastfeeding and avoid pumping into bottles or switching to formula. There are many things to consider with nipple shields. While nipple shields are highly accessible and relatively easy to use, there is a wide variety of shapes & sizes, making finding the right fit for your and your baby quite challenging.