I know I am going to be in the dog-house for this one, but I am not
a big fan of nipple shields.  Maybe this is because I see them abused
and over-used.  They are commonly handed out like candy by busy nurses
who see the shields as prevention and/or treatment for injured nipples.
The babies that are coming to me on the first or second week pp are so
confused and angry when the mother tries to nurse without them.  It is
one frustrating business for both mother and baby.  The only time I
would advise them is when the mom is ready to throw in the towel or as a
last resort for a baby is used to bottles and simply can't latch without
the plastic.  Don't you all see a reduction in milk supply when the
shields are used regularly?  I call them nipple condoms.  Yuk!  No
thanks.

Susan Nachman-Srebrnik
Lactation Consultant
Ranana, Israel