Division of Community Nutrition

Subject: Nipple Shields Policy: BF 04.7 Reference: C.F.R. §246.3 Effective: January 6, 2025

Supersedes: March 14, 2022

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I. Policy:

Nipple shields are medical devices and inappropriate use may mask breastfeeding problems and reduce breastfeeding duration. Therefore, nipple shields may only be issued to breastfeeding participants by the Breastfeeding Coordinator, Designated Breastfeeding Expert (DBE) or when a referral is received from a WIC, hospital or community based IBCLC.

II. Procedure(s):

A. The nipple shield referral must be documented in Crossroads in the referral screen of the family care plan. B. Nipple shields cannot be issued to pregnant participants. C. Nipple shields cannot be reused due to risk of cross-contamination.

D. The Breastfeeding Coordinator / DBE shall:

1) Complete appropriate SWO provided training on the use and management of nipple shields before issuing a nipple shield.

2) In collaboration with the referring IBCLC, instruct participants on the use of nipple shields.

3) Refer participant back to an the referring International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) if latch problems do not resolve.

3) Provide participants who receive nipple shields with an additional counseling contact within one week of issuance. Document in the family care plan in Crossroads.