07/03/2026
Let's discuss silver nursing cups. The benefits of using silver cups are due to its mechanical cover effect, and creating a moist hypoxic environment. Silver nursing cups have been embraced by women worldwide, and research has confirmed they sp*ed the healing of ni**le wounds. One study found using silver cups during late pregnancy reduced ni**le trauma in that group. However, Lactation Consultants are seeing adverse effects from misuse of silver ni**le cups if use instructions are not followed. Eg. if the cups are filled with breast milk the ni**le and ar**la can become over-moist, causing maceration/breakdown of the skin. The makers recommend taking breaks from wearing them to reduce the risk of skin maceration.
The silver cups can also cause tissue compression around the mother’s ar**la, which occurs as the breast refills and enlarges prior to each breastfeed. The compression ring can lead to inflammation and blocked ducts in the surrounding zone, potentially resulting in mastitis. Avoiding tight fitting nursing bras and removing the cups an hour or so before breastfeeds can reduce the incidence of ar**la compression.
The maker’s advice about cleaning the cups frequently needs to be followed to ensure their safety. After each breastfeed the cups should be rinsed with warm water to remove milk residue. Apart from breastmilk rubbed gently into the ni**le, other ni**le skin treatments should not be used with the silver cups. A mild soap such as handwash liquid can be used to clean the cups. They should not be put in the dishwasher, scrubbed with scourers or exposed to bleach sterilisers. Tarnishing of the silver surface is normal and can be treated with baking soda and water, rinsed and gently dried.
A Board Certified Lactation Consultant can guide mothers to avoid ni**le trauma by teaching positioning and attachment techniques which suit their unique breast and baby.
