Breast shells are soft, plastic, cup-shaped devices worn to
protect irritated nipples or pull out inverted nipples.
Breast shells are worn inside your bra, just against the breast,
between or before nursing or pumping sessions.
This device is quite simple. It’s comprised of two parts: a back
with a small, circle opening and a rounded front case.
Breast shells that protect irritated nipples have a
(comparatively) larger circle opening. The purpose of these shells is to
safeguard nipples so sore it’s painful to have them in contact with even the
softest of bras.
Breast shells that treat inverted nipples have a smaller circle
opening. When the pressure from a bra or shirt presses against the shell—and
thereby the areola—the nipple area stretches in even and simultaneous outward
directions. When worn for thirty minutes before feeding or pumping, this
movement causes an inverted nipple to protrude. Wearing breast shells for
longer durations (or prior to your child’s birth) provides no benefit.
Breast shells are recommended by physicians, nurses, and lactation
consultants to treat either of the above-mentioned conditions. As with most
devices, criticism and pushback exists. Most commonly, critics remind mothers
with irritated nipples that breast shells won’t heal the aggravated area, only
provide temporary relief. For mothers with inverted nipples, some experts now
suggest that proper latching methods are the real answer for successful
long-term nipple use.
If you do plan to use or experiment with breast shells, please
note the following:
- Breast shells may lead to leakage or overstimulation.
- Breast shells should not be worn constantly.
- It’s important to wash breast shells frequently with soap and warm water to prevent further irritation or bacterial build-up.
- Always discard any milk collected in the breast shells.
- Consult your physician/nurse/or lactation consultant with all questions and concerns when using breast shells.
When using breast shells you may also want to utilize
disposable nursing pads and lanolin for further support. If you are
experiencing leakage or overstimulation due to the use of breast shells,
nursing pads can be worn inside your bra to absorb resulting moisture and
decrease the chance of infection or discomfort. Lanolin is a popular ointment
applied to the nipple after nursing and/or pumping to soothe any inflammation
and/or irritation.
For more information about industry-leading breast
shells and user recommendations visit https://breastpumps.byramhealthcare.com/#/
*This blog is informed by our resident moms-in-the-know and not by medical professionals. This blog is intended to share the wisdom of experienced moms but never to replace the advice and insight of your doctors. Always consult proper and licensed medical professionals when making any decisions about your health and the health of your children.
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