Nipple Shields - Part 2

Finding the proper fit of a nipple shield is very important to its success. Currently, some nipple shield manufacturers are in the process of developing a wider range of sizes to make a good fit for both mom and baby.

Finding the proper fit for baby is essential. If it’s too long, it can cause baby to gag or make it difficult to latch past the firm teat and effectively transfer milk. A shield too short may not stimulate active sucking because it doesn’t extend far enough into baby’s mouth.

To determine a proper fit, mom should have baby suck on her clean finger, placing the pad of her finger upwards towards the baby’s high point of the palate - between the hard and soft area. As baby sucks vigorously, have mom place a mark on her finger where the baby’s lips close. This measurement between the mark and the tip of the finger is the ideal teat length.

The width of the teat is also important for a comfortable fit. At present, the shorter tipped shields, which are often used for younger babies or newborns, are narrower at the base. This may be good for baby but not necessarily a good fit for mom. Until a wider assortment of sizes becomes available from manufacturers, using the shields may need to be assessed on an individual basis.