Description
Lactation Hub Cherry-Shaped Nipple Shield
The LactationHub cherry-shaped nipple shield is designed for babies who need additional support to achieve or maintain a deeper latch at the breast.
Unlike a traditional conical shield, its rounded teat and narrower neck are designed to encourage the baby to open their mouth more widely and take the shield more deeply. This may help babies who tend to slip towards the tip of a standard nipple shield or have difficulty maintaining suction.
Made from thin, soft and tasteless silicone, the shield adheres gently to the breast while allowing the baby to remain close during feeding. It is available in three sizes to support a more individual fit.
Who may find a cherry-shaped nipple shield helpful?
This breastfeeding nipple shield may be suitable for:
- Babies with a shallow or unstable latch
- Babies who have difficulty maintaining a deep latch or suction
- Babies with disorganised or dysfunctional sucking patterns
- Babies with low oral muscle tone
- Babies experiencing increased oral or body tension
- Babies with tethered oral tissues, when used alongside appropriate assessment and feeding support
- Babies who repeatedly slip towards the tip of a traditional conical nipple shield
For general latch-on difficulties or where a more defined nipple shape is needed due to flat or inverted nipples, a conical nipple shield may be more appropriate.
Key features
- Distinctive cherry shape with a rounded teat and narrower neck
- Designed to encourage a wider and deeper latch
- May help the baby maintain suction and remain deeply attached
- Thin, soft and tasteless silicone
- Designed to adhere gently to the breast
- Can be sterilised or boiled
- Available in three sizes
- Sold individually, allowing different sizes to be selected when needed
Available sizes
- Small: 16 mm
- Medium: 18 mm
- Large: 21 mm
Correct sizing is important for both comfort and milk transfer. If you are unsure which size you need, seek guidance from an IBCLC, midwife or public health nurse.
How to use the LactationHub cherry-shaped nipple shield
Before using the shield for the first time, clean and sterilise it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wash your hands and inspect the shield for signs of damage.
- Place your thumbs at the base of the shield.
- Turn the shield almost completely inside out, leaving a small dimple at the tip.
- Centre the dimple over your nipple.
- Gently unroll the shield over your nipple and areola. This helps draw the nipple into the cherry-shaped section.
- If necessary, apply a small amount of clean water around the edge to help the shield adhere to your skin.
- Check that the base feels snug against your areola. Your nipple should sit comfortably inside the shield without rubbing against its sides.
Inspect the nipple shield before every use. Discontinue use and replace it if you notice any tears, cracks or other damage.
Important information
A nipple shield is a breastfeeding aid rather than a solution to the underlying cause of nipple pain or difficulty latching. Milk transfer, breast comfort and your baby’s weight gain should be monitored while using one.
For best results, use this cherry-shaped nipple shield with support from an IBCLC, midwife or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Correct sizing and placement are important for comfortable and effective feeding.
This product is not a toy. Never leave the nipple shield with a baby or child unattended.
