For breastfeeding mothers with flat or inverted nipples, tongue-ties, a baby who won’t latch or who bites while nursing, a contact nipple shield can be an essential tool. These nipple protectors put space between your nipple and baby’s mouth to correct the latch, stimulate the milk-producing glands and help baby feel secure while feeding.

These silicone nipple protectors are soft, flexible and easy to use. They’re made with food-grade materials, are free of BPA, latex and phthalates, and come in a set of six so you always have one on hand. They also have a curved design to hug the nipple and help you get a good seal for a reliable latch, and they’re hypoallergenic, so they’re ideal for sensitive nipples.

Some nipple shields are shaped like a cup and can be easily suction-cupped to the nipple, while others are more circular in shape and work best on a larger nipple or those with an inverted or flat nipple. Some have a lower section that’s cut out to allow skin-to-skin contact with baby.

While most breastfeeding consultants recommend using nipple shields only for short periods, they can be helpful if a nipple is sore, painful or irritated and the latching is a struggle. However, a mother shouldn’t rely solely on nipple shields, and if baby’s progress is slow or there are other issues, such as a low milk supply, a lactation specialist should be consulted for help and advice. nipple protectors for breastfeeding