"Why do they say that the nipple
protectors should not be used, or only used for a limited
time? Is it bad for the mum or the baby?"
A lot of midwive
s, especially in New Zealand, don't like mothers using the
nipple protectors as
they prefer for mother and baby to have full skin to skin
contact.
The silicone nipple protectors would be used AFTER the
damage has occurred, like a crack or a craze.
You would use the nipple protectors so that you can still
breastfeed your baby with less pain.
Some people may think that it would be better use the nipple
protectors straight away, before nipple damage has
occurred. But not all women will get nipple damage. And
it is better to try to do it naturally first.
If you do get any slight damage or soreness to your nipple, then
yes, use Nipple Protectors for a short time while your nipple
heals. These will allow you to continue breastfeeding, with
less pain.
As soon as you are healed, you should stop using them.