The Effect of a Device Developed for Flat or Inverted Nipples on Breastfeeding Success and the Time of Breastfeeding:...

Mothers with flat or inverted nipples may have inadequate nipple protrusion, leading to infant latch difficulties and breastfeeding challenges. Although several approaches exist, their effectiveness varies.

This randomized controlled study evaluated the effect of a newly developed Device for Flat or Inverted nipples (DFIN) on nipple length, the time for the infant to achieve latch, the duration of a single breastfeeding session, exclusive breastfeeding rates, and scores on the LATCH Assessment Tool.

The study included 63 mother-infant pairs (DFIN group: n = 31; injector group: n = 32). The DFIN was applied in the experimental group, and the modified injector technique was applied in the control group. Measurements included nipple length, time taken to achieve latch, duration of a single breastfeeding session, and LATCH scores. Exclusive breastfeeding rates were monitored at birth and at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 months postpartum.

Nipple length increased by 3.58 ± 2.06 millimeters in the DFIN group and 1.64 ± 1.17 millimeters in the injector group. The time taken to achieve latch decreased significantly in the DFIN group. LATCH scores increased by 2.10 ± 3.00 in the DFIN group, whereas they decreased by 1.38 ± 4.72 in the injector group. Exclusive breastfeeding rates were consistently higher in the DFIN group at birth and the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 6th months postpartum (p < 0.05).

The findings indicate that the DFIN improves nipple protrusion, shortens latch achievement time, enhances breastfeeding effectiveness, and supports sustained exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months postpartum.