Haakaa Breastfeeding Nipple Shield
Haakaa Breastfeeding Nipple Shield
SKU:MHK037
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Overview
Overview
The Haakaa Breastfeeding Nipple Shield is a world-first design made of 100% soft silicone, with an extended teat that puts space between your nipple and your baby’s mouth.
If your little one bites down, pulls away, or if you have inverted or cracked nipples, you will still be able to breastfeed with ease and comfort. Our Nipple Shields suction onto your breast, giving you a hands-free breastfeeding experience.
What's Included
What's Included
Technical Specification
Technical Specification
Delivery and Returns
Delivery and Returns
- Delivery: Free within NZ on orders over $100 (excluding bulky items) or $8 standard shipping
- Returns: Accepted within 14 days of receipt with proof of purchase
- Some items are excluded from returns including sale items, hardware, car seats, prams, monitors and personal items - please click here for the full list.
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Understanding the Fundamentals of Breastfeeding Breastfeeding might seem straightforward, but many new moms find it challenging. Patience is essential, and being well-prepared can make the process smoother. Here, we break down the basics to help you get ready for this journey. The Three Stages of Breast Milk Colostrum: The First Stage When your baby is born, your body produces colostrum, a clear or yellowish liquid packed with nutrients, proteins, and vitamins. This small amount is perfect for newborns, helping to protect their digestive tract and immune system. Transitional Milk: The Second Stage Regular breastfeeding will stimulate the production of transitional milk, which appears around the third to fifth day. It looks like a mix of milk and orange juice, rich in lactose, fat, and calories. Mature Milk: The Third Stage By the second week, mature milk replaces transitional milk. This pale, sometimes bluish milk provides all the nutrients, fat, and proteins your baby needs, adjusting its water content in hot weather and boosting antibodies when needed. Achieving a Good Latch Proper latching is crucial to prevent discomfort. A good latch covers both the nipple and the areola and shouldn't be painful. Here’s how to ensure a successful latch: Positioning Your Baby Hold your baby tummy-to-tummy with your breasts, keeping their head aligned with their body. Mouth to Nipple Tickle your baby’s lips with your nipple or express a bit of milk to encourage the rooting reflex. When your baby opens wide, bring them to your breast. Ensuring Proper Attachment A proper latch involves the baby’s chin and nose touching your breast. If necessary, adjust the bottom lip to ensure it isn’t tucked in. Watch for a steady suck-swallow-breathe pattern. Trying Different Positions If you encounter difficulties, experiment with different breastfeeding positions like the football hold or side-lying. Consult a lactation consultant if needed. Maintaining Comfort and Milk Supply Relax and Feed on Demand Stay calm and relaxed to enhance milk production. Allow your baby to feed without time limits, ensuring one breast is fully drained before switching to the other. Recognizing Hunger Cues Signs of hunger include nuzzling your breasts, rooting, sucking on hands or clothing, and making lip-smacking noises. Crying is a late hunger cue. Feeding Frequency Newborns typically feed 8-12 times a day. Some may need to be woken up for feeds if they sleep for more than six hours. Patience and Persistence Breastfeeding takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and your baby, seeking professional help if needed. With time, breastfeeding will become more natural and enjoyable for both of you. By following these tips, you can create a calm and successful breastfeeding experience, eventually making it look effortless.
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Tips for Successful Breast Pumping
How to express breast milk minus the stress 10 simple tips to get the pumping party started Whether a return to work is calling, you’re desperate for a night out or just keen to share the responsibility of feeding your baby, most new mamas eventually need some time off from breastfeeding. Enter the breast pump. While it might seem daunting at first, with tubes, suction and strange noises, it’s not so complicated once you get the hang of it. And just like any new skill, it can take a bit of time to learn. So how do you become a pumping pro? Read on to find out… Get started with the right pump : Before you meet your new baby, it’s a good idea to research, purchase and familiarise yourself with your breast pump. Depending on whether you’re planning on being an occasional pumper or pumping regularly, manual pumps like this one from Haaka and electric pumps like this one from Vital Baby each have different merits. That’s a whole other blog! The pre-pump clean-up : Before you get started, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, and ensure you’ve cleaned and sterilised your pump as per the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re planning on storing the milk, cleanliness is super important to avoid passing any nasties on to your baby. Create a designated pumping spot : Whether it’s at work or home, find a comfortable, quiet spot where you can have some uninterrupted pumping time. Make your go-to spot cosy and relaxing, with everything you need on hand. You’ll want a good book (or your phone) to pass the time, snacks (lactation cookies are perfect), a bottle of water and some soothing nipple cream. Think of pumping as an opportunity for some precious time out rather than a dreaded chore. Get your seating right : Once you’ve found your spot, get your seating sorted. A comfy chair that supports your back is a must for pumping sessions that won’t leave you aching. Make sure your feet are flat on the floor and have a cushion or nursing pillow handy to support your pump-holding arm. Dress for pumping success : A feeding-friendly wardrobe is essential for easy pumping or breastfeeding access. Get the basics right, starting with a comfortable nursing bra like this one from Body Silk and then layer with buttoned shirts from your existing wardrobe or specific nursing tops or dresses. Breathe deeply and relax : Expressing can be a stressful experience until you get the hang of it, so once you’re in position and have your pump ready to go, take some slow, relaxing breaths. Slow breathing calms your nervous system and is a good way to get yourself in the zone. Try breathing in for the count of 5, pausing, then exhaling for the count of 6. Repeat until relaxed. Encourage let-down : In the absence of a sucking baby, encouraging let-down can be one of the trickiest parts of pumping. A soft massage before pumping coupled with a warm compress like a wheat bag can help get your milk-makers ready to go. Thinking about your baby (if he’s not with you) or looking through photos or videos (you’ll likely have a few) will also assist. Resist bottle-watching : While it’s tempting to stare at the bottle, obsessing over how quickly (or slowly) it’s filling up – it won’t help! Just like the old saying ‘A watched pot never boils’, a watched bottle doesn’t fill. It’s tough to be relaxed while compulsively watching your milk ducts do their thing. If you really can’t resist the urge, throw a blanket over the bottle, and go for the big reveal several minutes later. Don’t waste a drop : Seeing any of that precious milk wasted is slightly soul-destroying, so be prepared to catch leaks and spills. Haaka has produced a clever little milk collector called the Ladybug that allows you to capture every last drop. You can use it between feeds, or place on your other breast while pumping to capture excess milk that would usually be resigned to a nursing pad. There’s an app for that : If you’re planning on being a regular pumper, an app like Milk Maid will help you keep track of how much you pump, when you’ve pumped and how much you have stored. That’s one less thing for a tired mama to try and remember! Be consistent and persistent Just like anything new, breast pumping has its learning curve. It involves a bit of trial and error to find out what works best for you, and a degree of persistence. And while it might feel strange and uncomfortable early on, the above tips will have it feeling like just another part of your normal baby routine soon enough. Remember, professional help is always available too if you need it.
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Breastfeeding Challenges: Common Problems & How to Overcome Them
Breastfeeding Made Easier: Tips for Common Challenges Before your baby arrives, it's easy to imagine that breastfeeding will happen instinctively. While that can be true for some families, it's perfectly normal if it takes a little longer to find your rhythm. Many new mums experience challenges like sore nipples, engorgement, latch difficulties or concerns about milk supply in those first few weeks. If that sounds familiar, you're certainly not alone. At Dimples, one of the things we hear most often is, "I thought breastfeeding would just come naturally." The reality is that for many mums, it takes a little time, plenty of patience, and the right support. Thankfully, many breastfeeding challenges are only temporary, and with the right guidance they often become much easier to manage. If you decide to supplement or switch to formula, that's okay too. A fed baby and a supported mum are what matter most. But if breastfeeding is something you'd like to continue, know that many mums find things improve with time, patience and the right support. You've got this. Here’s a gentle guide to some of the common hurdles and how to help overcome them: 1. Engorged Breasts A few days after giving birth, you may notice your breasts suddenly feel hard, heavy, warm, and tender as your milk comes in. Although it can feel quite uncomfortable, this is a completely normal part of your body adjusting to your baby's feeding needs. The good news is that engorgement is usually temporary. As your milk supply begins to regulate and your baby establishes a regular feeding pattern, the fullness will often settle. What can help Feed your baby regularly, even if it's only for a short time. If your breasts are too full for your baby to latch comfortably, try hand expressing a small amount of milk first to soften the breast. 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True low milk supply is less common, but if your baby isn't gaining weight well or has very few wet nappies, it's important to speak with your midwife, GP or lactation consultant. What can help If your healthcare provider is happy that everything is progressing normally but you'd like to naturally support your milk supply, try feeding frequently, pumping between feeds if appropriate, drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet. Many mums also enjoy adding lactation cookies or a lactation blend to their daily routine. While they're not a guaranteed way to increase milk supply, many mums enjoy them as part of their breastfeeding routine alongside regular feeding, good hydration and a balanced diet. Shop our lactation support range here 5. Inverted or Flat Nipples You may never have paid much attention to the shape of your nipples before breastfeeding, but flat or inverted nipples can sometimes make it more difficult for your baby to latch. The good news is that many mums with flat or inverted nipples go on to breastfeed successfully. What can help Speak with your midwife or a lactation consultant, who may recommend using a nipple shield or expressing a small amount of milk before feeding to gently draw the nipple out. 6. Blocked Ducts A blocked milk duct often feels like a tender lump beneath the skin and usually occurs when milk isn't draining effectively. This can happen if you've missed a feed, your bra is too tight, or your breast hasn't emptied fully. What can help Continue feeding regularly, particularly on the affected side, to help keep milk moving. Applying warmth before feeding and gently massaging the area towards the nipple can also help encourage the blockage to clear. Most blocked ducts resolve within a day or two but if you are experiencing alot of pain and unable to breastfeed, please see your GP. 7. Mastitis Sometimes a blocked duct can develop into mastitis, or bacteria can enter through cracked skin, leading to a breast infection. Mastitis often causes flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills and body aches, along with a painful, red area on the breast. What can help If you think you may have mastitis, it's important to see your GP promptly, as antibiotics are often needed. Although feeding may feel uncomfortable or sore, continuing to breastfeed or express milk can actually help speed up recovery by keeping the breast well drained. Warm or cool compresses between feeds may also provide some relief. 💛 Don't try to push through - Many mums think they can "tough it out", but mastitis really needs medical treatment. The sooner you seek help, the quicker you'll usually recover. You Are Not Alone - and You're Doing an Amazing Job If there's one thing we'd love every new mum to know, it's this: asking for help is a strength, not a weakness! For over 30 years, we've had the privilege of supporting hundreds of New Zealand families through pregnancy, newborn life and beyond, and we've learned that almost every breastfeeding journey is different, and has its own ups and downs. And if, despite your best efforts, breastfeeding doesn't work out the way you'd hoped, that's okay too. Whether you breastfeed, formula feed or combine the two, what matters most is that your baby is fed, loved and thriving. Be kind to yourself, trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to lean on your midwife, GP, lactation consultant or the people around you. Sometimes the right support is all it takes to help you find your confidence. ❤️ Shop our full range of breastfeeding support and essential items here
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Bottle-feeding: choosing the right bottles and teats
Choosing the Right Bottle & Teat for Your Baby A Practical Guide to Finding the Right Bottle Feeding Setup We’ve been helping families for many years now, and a question we are always asked by new parents is “Which is the best baby bottle?” - and while we wish there was a one size fits all answer to this question, the reality is that there isn't one perfect bottle for every baby. The best baby bottle is the one that suits your bub's feeding style, comfort, and stage of development, while also fitting your family's routine and preferences. Finding the right bottles and teats can sometimes feel overwhelming. With so many options available, from anti colic bottles and wide neck designs to glass, silicone, and plastic bottles… it's natural to wonder which choice is best for your baby. In this guide, we'll help you understand the different bottle and teat options so you can find a feeding setup that feels right for your baby and your family. How to Choose the Best Baby Bottle When comparing baby bottles, start by thinking about your baby's feeding needs rather than focusing on brands or features. Newborn? Look for slow flow teats and easy to clean bottles – you’ll likely be using up to 12 bottles a day in those very early stages! Breastfed or mixed feeding? Wide neck bottles and breast shaped teats can help support a natural latch. Experiencing wind or reflux? Anti-colic bottles will help reduce swallowed air. Need something practical for everyday use? Lightweight plastic bottles are often a great choice. Looking for a long term option? Glass bottles are durable and long lasting. Choosing the Right Bottle MaterialDifferent bottle materials offer different benefits, but there isn't a single right choice. Bottle Type Best For Things to Know Plastic Everyday use Lightweight and practical Glass Durability Easy to clean but heavier Silicone Mixed feeding Soft and flexible 💛 Dimples Tip: Something we often tell parents is not to overthink the bottle material too much. Most babies will adapt well to different bottle types, so it's often more about what works best for your family and feeding routine. Bottle Shapes at a Glance Standard Bottles - A simple, reliable option that works well for most babies. Wide-Neck Bottles - Easier to fill and clean, and often preferred by families combining breast and bottle feeding. Anti-Colic Bottles - Designed to reduce the amount of air swallowed during feeding. 💛 Something we get asked a lot at Dimples: "Are anti colic bottles really worth it?" For babies who experience wind, gas, or reflux, or even for as a preventative method – yes! We know many parents who have found they make feeding more comfortable and reduce post feed fussiness. Explore our bottle range here Explore our Infant and Toddler Formula range here Best Bottles for Breastfed Babies & Mixed Feeding Another common question we hear at Dimples is: "What's the best bottle for a breastfed baby?" While every baby is different, wide-neck bottles with soft silicone teats are often a great place to start. When introducing a bottle to a breastfed baby, look for: Wide teats that encourage a natural latch Slow flow teats that mimic breastfeeding Soft silicone teats with a familiar feel Bottles designed to support mixed feeding Many parents also find paced bottle feeding helpful, as it encourages babies to feed at a rhythm that's closer to breastfeeding. You can learn more about paced bottle feeding here. Shop bottles suitable for mixed feeding Choosing the right teat flow can make feeding feel calmer and more comfortable for your baby. For newborns and younger babies, a slow flow teat is usually the best place to start. This helps milk flow gently and steadily, giving your baby time to feed at their own pace. As your baby grows and becomes more confident with bottle feeding, they may be ready for a medium or faster flow teat. Age guides can be helpful, but your baby's feeding cues are often the best sign. The flow may be too fast if your baby is coughing, spluttering, gulping milk, leaking milk from their mouth, or becoming unsettled during feeds. The flow may be too slow if your baby seems frustrated, takes a very long time to finish a bottle, or often falls asleep before finishing their feed. 💛 Another common questions we are asked: "When should I move up a teat size?" The answer is usually based on your baby's feeding cues rather than just their age alone. Shop our teat range here Cleaning, Sterilising & Bottle Care Keeping bottles and teats clean is a very important part of bottle feeding. Wash bottles and teats thoroughly, replace worn teats when needed, and sterilise bottles up until your baby is approximately 12 months old. A few simple essentials can make life easier: Bottle sterilisers Bottle warmers Bottle brushes Drying racks Feeding bibs Shop bottle cleaning and sterilising essentials here Frequently Asked Questions about Bottle Feeding What bottles are best for newborns? Most newborns do well with bottles fitted with slow flow teats. Anti-colic designs can also be helpful for babies prone to wind or reflux. What bottle is best for a breastfed baby? Wide-neck bottles with soft silicone teats are often a great option for supporting mixed feeding and encouraging a natural latch. Are anti-colic bottles worth it? For babies who swallow excess air while feeding, anti-colic bottles may help reduce wind, gas, and feeding discomfort. How do I know if teat flow is too fast? Look for coughing, spluttering, milk leaking from the mouth, or your baby struggling to keep up with the flow. Glass vs plastic baby bottles: which is better? Both are excellent options. Plastic bottles are lightweight and practical, while glass bottles are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to staining. Finding the Right Feeding Fit for Your Family Every baby is different, and finding the best baby bottle often involves a little trial and error. Trust your baby's cues, be kind to yourself, and remember that there's no single "right" choice. What matters most is finding a feeding setup that feels comfortable for both you and your baby. 💛 A final note from our team: We've helped hundreds of New Zealand families navigate bottle feeding over the years, and if there's one thing we've learned, it's that every feeding journey looks a little different. You're doing a great job. Shop our full range of baby bottles, teats and feeding essentials
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