Best Breast Shells & Nipple Therapy Products in 2022

Last update: January 9, 2023

Are breast milk shells worth it?

There are many benefits to using breast milk shells. They can increase milk production, help with let-down, and provide relief from engorgement. They are also a convenient way to store and transport breast milk. However, they are not necessary for all women and some may find them to be uncomfortable.

Are breast shells good?

There is no medical evidence to suggest that breast shells are effective in increasing milk production. Some mothers find them helpful in relieving engorgement, but there is no guarantee that they will work for everyone. If you are considering using breast shells, be sure to consult with a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider first.

Can I permanently use nipple shields?

If you want to use nipple shields, you can! Some women find them very helpful, while others prefer not to use them. Ultimately, it is up to you whether or not you want to use nipple shields.

Can I wear breast shells all the time?

You can wear breast shells all the time if you want, but you may find that they're more comfortable to wear for shorter periods of time. Some women find that they help to relieve engorgement and discomfort when they wear them at night.


Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream for Breastfeeding, 1.41 Ounces Review:


To be quite honest, I don't have a baby to nurse; instead, I have chapped lips. My lips are exceedingly dry, easily chapped, and peel. Isotretinoin, sometimes referred to as Accutane or Claravis, is what I'm taking, and my dermatologist advised me to use vaseline. I noticed that many were advising using 100% lanolin/nipple cream for lips instead on various accutane forums. I used both vaseline and this lotion while taking accutane for two months, and I can honestly state that this stuff works so much better than vaseline. Vaseline does a fantastic job of forming a barrier over the lips, but lanolin takes a step further by working to heal the skin there as well as forming a barrier to protect the skin. I've even gone so far as to apply it to my face at night to hydrate and repair it. I recently bought my second tube, and given how well it works, I probably will continue using it for my lips even when I stop taking accutane.One thing to remember: even though it's not traditionally greasy, one day I was being lazy and wiped the extra from my finger over a set of darkish gray yoga trousers. Even after they were washed, they still had what appeared to be a grease stain on them (I had failed to treat the pants for the mark before washing). Therefore, only be careful to prevent rubbing off on any fabrics or materials.



Medela Tender Care Lanolin Nipple Cream for Breastfeeding, All Natural Hypoallergenic, Soothing Protection and Safe for Mom and Baby, 2 Ounce Tube Review:


A definite requirement for mothers who are nursing. Without this, I would not have survived those early weeks. I had to adjust to nursing for around six weeks. I am no longer in need of it after three months. Each time you finish breastfeeding, use a tiny dab. Don't pass it by! After each feeding, it promotes nipple healing. Because I overproduce, my baby only receives one side when she eats, which gives me more time to recover after each feeding. This will make clothes stained. Who cares if my nursing bras are unsightly since they all have little patches on the inside? There will already be milk leaking from you. When my baby started to develop a friction rash on her chin, I also applied this. Fortunately, it quickly went away, and she looked stunning for her newborn photos. Even as a diaper rash ointment, you can use this. You can do this, new mothers everywhere! The roughest two weeks are the first two, but after that, I guarantee, things get much better! Today marks my baby's third month, and I hardly remember the challenges of recovering from a c-section while deprived of sleep and trying to figure out how to feed my child. We eventually came to a solution, despite the fact that I felt like a bad mother. Don't be scared to pump for a few days so you can bottle-feed your baby and give your breasts a break. If you need to, you can always take formula as a supplement. Driving yourself mad and believing that "Fed is best" are both bad for everyone, yet purchase a tube of this stuff nevertheless. It's awesome!



Organic Nipple Butter Breastfeeding Cream by Earth Mama | Lanolin-free, Safe for Nursing & Dry Skin, Non-GMO Project Verified, 2-Fluid Ounce (Packaging May Vary) Review:


I initially bought it as nipple butter since I preferred it to lanolin for the baby's digestion. Additionally, it has a mildly pleasing scent that has a soothing effect. I kept it next to my bed, and one night I couldn't find my bedside chapstick, so I decided it could take its place. I loved how moisturized my lips felt in the morning, and my winter lip problems were no more! A month later, when changing a baby, I was unable to locate the desitin. My infant had a buildup of skin chafing on one inner leg that persisted despite careful attention and washing for a month. For the duration of changing diapers the following day, I put a thin coat of this and observed the skin mending. After a few more days, everything had healed. This is my go-to medication and requires a much thinner coat than desitin, therefore the small canister lasts longer than a tube of desitin. I never went back to using desitin. Because it has three uses—nipple, lip, and diaper cream—I reordered it instead of the earth butter diaper cream (which I have never used).



Lansinoh Lanolin Nipplecream for Breastfeeding, 3 Mini Tubes of 0.25 Ounces Review:


I've been dealing with terrible chapped lips for months. My mouth started splitting open, and they were so awful that they were genuinely painful. I've tried at least a dozen various kinds while "constantly" applying medicated and non-medicated lip salves and balms. I would even reapply it if I woke up in the middle of the night. NOTHING ASSISTED!Until I found this product, which has been "a miracle cure" for me, nothing has worked. My lips stopped cracking, became moist, and recovered in just two days. I simply use the tiniest amount possible and reapply as needed.If you can lick your lips without harming the baby, it's safe for you to do so as well. In contrast to petroleum-based lip balms or bees wax, it ATTRACTS MOISTURE rather than keeping it out.Lansinoh HPA Lanolin is the item.The tubes are tiny, yet all it takes is a tiny bit to coat the lips (see the ballpoint pen next to them).



Lansinoh Soothies Breast Gel Pads for Breastfeeding and Nipple Relief, 2 Pads Review:


These really are incredibly relaxing! With my first, they were a tremendous relief in allowing me to sleep at night because there was nothing to take my mind off the tightness and discomfort in my nipples (I experienced bleeding and cracking with her, which was not fun!). Even with my second kid, who has had amazing success nursing, these helped with the first stiffness brought on by abrupt round-the-clock breastfeeding with a small mouth. Now, I always bring these to baby showers!Despite the fact that they absorb some milk, they are not intended to stop leakage. I wouldn't leave the house with just these and no regular breastfeeding pad. (I prefer Bamboobies for washables and Lansinoh for disposables.)I like these over Medela hydrogel pads. They fit better inside bras thanks to their fabric backing, and the boob side peels off less and sticks less. Although the Medela hydrogels are less expensive, they are also an alternative for prolonged use (if your baby has latch problems and your nipples are truly hurting). PS: If you truly need assistance, don't forget to contact your lactation consultant!



Motherlove - Nipple Cream, Lanolin-Free Organic Herbal Salve for Soothing Sore Cracked Nursing Nipples, Unscented Ointment, Great as a Pump Lubricant, No Need to Wash Off Prior to Breastfeeding, 1 oz Review:


This item is fantastic. Since my daughter was born (now 3 weeks ago), I have been using Lansinoh consistently. I have also been nursing and pumping (to maintain supply), and my nipple pain/discomfort was approaching extreme levels. I was starting to worry that I could have a yeast infection on my nipples and debated calling the doctor, but I ultimately chose to wait until this product arrived and give it a day in order to avoid using antibiotics or anything else that might interfere with breastfeeding. My nipples felt better after the second or third time I applied this ointment. The rawness and pain I was experiencing are no longer present.Given that, I am aware that this cream is neither a cure or therapy for thrush, which I can see plainly didn't exist in my case. After the birth of my first kid, I too had experience with thrush and was familiar with its symptoms. Prior to opting to delay calling the doctor, I did look up and examine myself and my child for any other symptoms. I advise you to notify your doctor and lactation consultant right once if you or your kid exhibit any symptoms of thrush or if there is any issue with nursing.I believe that this cream should be readily available for all breastfeeding mothers. Don't even waste your time or money on lansinoh/lanolin cream; it ought to be a basic. The Motherlove Nipple Cream is a touch oily, and I have seen some discoloration on my nursing pads, but that is to be anticipated. It was also there after using lanolin oil. After a 3 a.m. breastfeeding session, it's pleasant to not have to go to the bathroom to wash your hands because your skin is no longer oily once you wipe your finger off after application.



Medela Contact Nipple Shield for Breastfeeding, 24mm Medium Nippleshield, For Latch Difficulties or Flat or Inverted Nipples, 2 Count with Carrying Case, Made Without BPA Review:


These are great all around. When I was about to give up, they kept my nursing relationship alive. Ever since his birth, my son has had trouble latching on. My nipples were bloody and torn apart, and I was in excruciating pain, but the two lactation consultants we dealt with insisted I just needed to "get over it" and that it would get better. Well, it didn't, so for more than a month I went to exclusively pumping.My son refused to nurse despite my repeated attempts. I had to supplement with formula for two feedings a day since I was becoming weary from pumping and it was affecting my already poor supply (I have Hashimoto's and was diagnosed with a decreased supply as a result). When my husband visited our family doctor for an appointment, he casually mentioned my problems to her. She urged him to suggest that I try these nipple shields because they helped her continue nursing. When I initially questioned whether I should try it, my lactation consultant responded, "You might as well not breastfeed if you use one of those." I made the decision to disregard her suggestions because I did not agree with them.I can now say that they treat me the same way that my doctor does. My production has returned to normal; my youngster may now exclusively receive breastmilk without the need for supplemental formula. Although they are challenging to clean and have a propensity to tumble over, I'm prepared to put up with them because they have prevented me from giving up breastfeeding. Because the silicon is thin and soft, nursing is no longer painful. I've discovered that I can frequently remove the shield during feedings, and my son will still breastfeed successfully with an excellent latch.These have really saved my life. If you are having latching problems, I highly suggest these. Despite weeks of difficulty, frustration, and me being on the verge of PPD because I was so disappointed in myself for failing at breastfeeding, my lactation consultants never even suggested them. I cannot urge you enough to give these a try if you are having trouble breastfeeding. You don't need anyone's approval to try them; if I had waited for it, I would have completely stopped breastfeeding. Take matters into your own hands and do what's best for you and the baby, even if that means using a shield, if you're not getting the support you need. A baby on the breast with a protection is preferable to none at all.



Lansinoh TheraPearl Breast Therapy Pack, Breastfeeding Essentials, 2 Pack Review:


Use: I used these hot (microwaved) and cold (frozen) for various reasons with varying outcomes. I would use these to reduce engorgement every couple of hours in between feedings because they fast freeze up and become frigid. They seemed to get chilly rapidly but would defrost quickly after being inserted into my bra. These were not all that frigid in my opinion. HOT: I enjoyed wearing these items while they were hot. I would microwave them for 20 to 25 seconds before wearing them while pumping. They were warm throughout my whole pump session and occasionally required cooling off before use.What's in the box: The plastic box contained two gel inserts in the form of a "C" and two fabric covers.There are two purple washable cloth covers included with these. The gel package is folded, inserted into the cover, and then closed by clasping the button. These coverings are ideal for (1) engorgement of cold objects and (2) pre-feeding or pumping; however, pumping is not recommended because the covers frequently become sticky from breast milk. The fabric is semi-soft and cleans easily.HOT for Pumping: These were great to use both before and during pumping because they let my milk flow more. After popping my bra in the microwave for 20 to 25 seconds, I removed it, wrapped it around the flange of the pump, and began pumping. These didn't require any holding in order to remain in position during pumping.Washable: I cleaned these in the sink after each use and hand- or air-dried them if I used them for hot or frozen food.Overall: When not as soft as other hot/cold breast items, this one is still simple to clean, keeps you warm, and is simple to use while pumping. Don't let yourself become too cold after putting on your bra.Please click the "helpful" button to the right to let me know if you found this review to be useful. I'm grateful. ***



Medela PersonalFit Connectors, Compatible with Most Medela Breast Pumps, Authentic Medela Pump Parts Made Without BPA Review:


These are fantastic and truly invaluable. Pumping using the proper size flanges versus not makes such a significant impact. use an infinite number of lanolin tubes while pumping? Perhaps your flanges are not the right size! According to Medela:Must you try a different size?Does it hurt when your nipple rubs against the tunnel's walls?Do you observe a lot of areola being dragged through the tunnel?Is there any redness there?Your areola or nipple is it becoming white.Do you experience any leftover milk after pumping?===========There is a leaflet on the Medela website that describes how to "measure" your nipples, but I don't think it's easy to pull the measuring tape out and do something like that on your own. Make sure the lactation consultant (LC) is there while you pump if you have to start while your child is still in the hospital. They typically do an excellent job of identifying whether something is the wrong size. Alternately, be proactive and request a set of larger size flanges so you may test the fit. I think they won't be able to provide you any additional parts from the hospital supply once your child is discharged. Unfortunately, I believe hospitals only carry products in sizes up to XL, thus the lactation consultant might not be aware of this item. Try what they have available, but be aware that there are much larger sizes available!My second child was just a few days old when I was fortunate enough to need to pump while attending a lactation consultant consultation. I remarked that even with the XL's I had left over from my prior pregnancy, pumping was unpleasant. The LC advised me to try purchasing these on Amazon because that was the only store she was aware of where I could do so. I'm sure many people are wearing the incorrect size flanges; I feel like I just happened to find them. Despite working with a different group of lactation consultants at the time, I'm very certain I should have employed them with my first pregnancy but just wasn't aware of them. The best person to help you choose the proper size is probably a lactation consultant, but be warned that some of them MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT THE XX LARGE.



Medela Contact Nipple Shield, 24mm Medium, Nippleshield for Breastfeeding with Latch Difficulties or Flat or Inverted Nipples, Made Without BPA Review:


At exactly 38 weeks, our son was delivered by cesarean. LC informed me that his male gender, near-preterm birth, and c-section birth all contributed to his tendency to be a poor nurser. He would nurse his lower lip instead of my nipple as soon as he latches instead of my nipple. He was angry since he was not getting any food that way, and I was in excruciating pain. I prioritized breastfeeding, and lactation did everything it could to improve his latch. In order to aid prevent further harm to my nipples and to give him something stiffer to hold onto, a nipple shield was eventually added. The nipple shield did not improve his latch; rather, it gave me the opportunity to adjust his lip with my finger while being pain-free. He latches flawlessly on by himself every time now that he is 5 weeks old. In reality, he was taught the proper way to do it by persistence in correcting the latch or by yanking him off and doing it again even if it hurt. We still use the shield because he likes it to my natural nipple right now, but LC has told me that eventually he may stop liking it or that he can be weaned off of it. It is uncomfortable, and at first I believed that I would not be able to exclusively breastfeed with the shield for an extended period of time because it was difficult to place the baby after a cesarean section, obtain a breast feeding pillow, place the nipple shield, prevent wriggling arms from knocking it off, etc. I don't think it will be a problem at all if he continues to solely want the shield in the long run now that he has been doing it for so long. If that's what it takes, I'd keep using it EBF throughout. We were given the medela shield specifically in the hospital, and I have since ordered many more to have on hand in case one disappears or is dirty. Because it is so tiny, the nipple can be compressed just like it would normally. Between leaving the hospital and his two-week follow-up, he gained 2 lbs, proving that he consumes adequate food while using it. However, the most crucial thing to keep in mind when using this shield is to read the instructions before slapping it on and starting to nurse. The shield needs to be almost completely turned inside out before being "rolled" onto the nipple. When the shield is being used, it helps keep the shield in the proper position by creating a suction that pushes the nipple into it. When I first received one in the hospital, I was not informed of this, and the baby's wriggling and rooting caused the shield to come loose and harm my nipple.In the end, I think this is a fantastic tool for people who have trouble latching or who have excruciatingly painful nipples. Given that it is so much thinner, that LC recommends it, and that hospitals employ it, the medela brand appears to be the preferable one. Having said that, I believe that if you're thinking about buying this, you should try to visit an LC first so they can adjust the latch and location and recommend a shield. I would not buy this because it is inconvenient unless an LC directly instructed me to do so. Because nursing from a shield is easier than nursing from the breast and many newborns do not like switching back, like in my case, the babies will typically get accustomed to the shield.


Do breast shells cause mastitis?

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that breast shells cause mastitis. However, some women report that wearing breast shells helps to relieve engorgement and pain associated with mastitis. Additionally, breast shells can help to express milk from the affected breast, which can speed up the healing process.

Do breast shells work for flat nipples?

There is no scientific evidence to support the use of breast shells for the treatment of flat or inverted nipples. However, some women report that they have found breast shells to be helpful in correcting their nipple condition. If you are considering using breast shells, it is important to consult with a lactation specialist or your doctor to ensure that they are the right treatment for you.

Do nipple shells work?

Nipple shields, or shells, are a thin, pliable piece of silicone that helps protect sore or cracked nipples during breastfeeding. They are available in different sizes to fit different nipple sizes. Nipple shields can be used to help latch on, or they can be worn over the entire nipple and areola. Nipple shields can be very helpful for some mothers, but they are not a cure-all. If you are having difficulty breastfeeding, talk to a lactation consultant or your doctor to see if nipple shields are right for you.

How do I get my flat nipples to stick out?

There are a few things you can try to get your flat nipples to stick out. First, you can try using a nipple shield or nipple enhancer. These can help to draw out the nipple and make it more prominent. You can also try using a breast pump to stimulate the nipple and draw it out. Finally, if you are breastfeeding, the baby's suckling can help to draw out the nipple. If you try all of these things and your nipple still does not stick out, you may want to consult with a doctor to see if you have a condition called nipple inversion.

How do I know when my breast is completely empty?

The best way to know if your breast is empty is by using a breast pump. By using a breast pump, you can measure the amount of milk you are able to get from your breast. If you are not able to get any milk from your breast, then your breast is most likely empty.

How do you fully drain your breast?

To fully drain your breast, you need to ensure that you are using proper latch techniques. You also need to be aware of how your baby is positioned. Additionally, you need to use different positions to empty your breast.