Nipple shields come in different sizes. It is important for them to be fitted to suit the size of individual mothers’ nipples, otherwise milk flow can be impeded and they can cause nipple damage. Nipple shields must be put on the breast correctly to optimise milk removal and comfort. It is therefore important to observe a breastfeed when a mother begins using a nipple shield to ensure the infant is able to remove milk well and the mother’s comfort is maintained.  In most cases, use of a nipple shield is temporary. Some mothers find they only need to use the nipple shield in the early days while their infant is learning to breastfeed.