Breastfeeding shell: Ask questions and know when it is indicated

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Anyone expecting a baby also expects the breastfeeding period to proceed smoothly and safely. For women who have opted for natural breastfeeding, the market offers several products that promise to help nipple preparation or even breastfeeding itself. Among these products, the breastfeeding shell appears as one of the best known.

But after all, what is the breast-feeding shell and what is it for? Is the use really indicated or can it bring dangers? Let's check out all the following details:


Content Index:

  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Experiences
  • Where to buy

Breastfeeding Shell Frequently Asked Questions

The breastfeeding shell still raises many questions among the general public and some controversy on the experts' behalf. Concern for local hygiene is the most common, but for most experts use may be recommended in circumstances for which it is actually indicated. We spoke with Dr. Pamella Demeciano Mamede (CRM 52-99212-7), a pediatric doctor and pediatric oncologist, a member of the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics, who has asked some of the most common questions about the breastfeeding shell.

What is the breastfeeding shell?

It is a shell-shaped accessory with a central hole to fit the nipple. The material used is usually based on silicone.


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What is the breast-feeding shell for?

Breastfeeding shell is increasingly being sought by mothers with breastfeeding problems, such as nipple cracks, milk leakage, flat or inverted nipples and breast engorgement. explains Dr. Pamella Demeciano.

Much of the public who opts for use seeks to reduce pain in the nipples, protecting them from contact with clothes, and also as a way to contain milk leaks.


Are there any problems or contraindications?

Dr. Pamella points out that it is necessary to be aware, because although it is transparent, the milk that is trapped inside the shell, associated with the heat and humidity caused by its muffling, can lead to the growth of fungi and bacteria in the nipples and contamination of milk. stored. "In addition, the pressure of the shell on the breast may cause decreased local circulation, worsening breast engorgement and / or mastitis," he warns.

It is important to note that the milk stored in the shell should never be offered to the baby because of the high risk of contamination. Daily shell cleaning is also crucial for safe use.

What is essential in a breastfeeding shell?

There are several types on the market, ranging from material to format, some with ventilation system. • Mothers who choose to use the shell should choose the most comfortable for their type of breast, and can start using it during pregnancy. If the material is more rigid, should the shell not be used for more than three hours?

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Is breastfeeding shell or breast pad more suitable?

In the opinion of Dr. Pamella Demeciano Mamede, it is preferable to use breast pads:? Because they are disposable, they offer a lower risk of contamination and protect against nipple friction and the bra without exerting breast compression. However, they should be changed throughout the day, especially on warmer days, as muffling can make cracks worse and / or favor the onset of breast candidiasis ?, complete.

Remember that the breastfeeding shell is indicated for specific problems and not for all breastfeeding mothers. Dr. Pamella adds that the main problem with early weaning is not the shape of the nipples, but the wrong grip of the breasts.

Breastfeeding Shell Experiments

Besides knowing the medical opinion, it is always good to listen to what the mothers they used have to say. For each the experience was different and helped in some way, but they also do not forget the recommendations and care of use. Let's check it out?

Items that can help painless breastfeeding

The My Little Explorer channel shows items that helped with breastfeeding success, including the breastfeeding shell. This mother used the item to protect her nipples during the breastfeeding process and recommends it.

Also read: Is baby walker recommended? Pediatrician clarifies doubts

How to use and sanitize the breastfeeding shell

In this video from Mommy to Mommy, you learn the step-by-step shell usage and cleaning.Also details about times of use such as fitting into clothing and the component parts.

What is actually used from the Maternity Bag?

With so many products designed to make the maternity bag, do we really use everything? This is the subject of the video of blogger Raka Minelli. She used and indicates the breastfeeding shell shortly after birth to help with bruised breasts.

How to Avoid Breast Cracks During Breastfeeding

Nurse and mother Juliane Imamur used the breastfeeding shell before and after delivery. She says the experience has helped her feel protected and also gives us advice on how to use and clean the shells.

Rigid breastfeeding shell in pre-breastfeeding

At the very first prenatal visit, the gynecologist indicated that Luciana Patara used a rigid breastfeeding shell to prepare the six and nipples. She liked the tip and tells all the details.

As you can see, each experience is different and the outcome varies depending on the goal. Research well before choosing to use the breast shell and preferably talk to your doctor about it.

Where to buy breastfeeding shell

You can buy your breastfeeding shell at specialty stores or over the internet. Always remember to buy the item only if your doctor tells you to and if you feel the need to use it.

Breastfeeding is a different experience for every mother and every baby. The process may be easy and intuitive, but it can also create discomfort and raise many questions about the baby's good nutrition and breast attachment. Always ask your doctor's opinion and help, but also be sure to rely on your intuition a bit.

Can flat or inverted nipples be corrected so I can breastfeed my baby? (April 2024)


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