Consequences of Using Artificial Nipples in Exclusive Breastfeeding: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Objective: To describe the consequences of using artificial nipples to exclusive breastfeeding. Materials and method: An integrative review carried out in the Medline®, Cinahl, Lilacs, Web of Science, and Scopus databases to answer the following question: What are the consequences of using artificial nipples to exclusive breastfeeding? Results: 38 articles were analyzed; the analysis gave rise to two categories: neonatal factors and maternal factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding. Breastfeeding interruption was the neonatal factor most associated with the use of artificial nipples, while the level of maternal education stood out as an intervening factor in exclusive breastfeeding. Pacifiers were the dummy type more commonly mentioned, followed by feeding bottles and nipple shields. Conclusions: The consequences of offering artificial nipples to breastfed infants are mostly negative and associated with the newborn, such as early weaning, refusal to breastfeed, impaired suction technique, incorrect latch-on, interference with orofacial development, and interruption of exclusive breastfeeding. Mothers who offered artificial nipples to their infants are more likely to experience pain, nipple fissures, frustration, and reduced interaction with their infants.