A Common but Risky Material
In the 18th and 19th centuries, nipple shields were often made from metal, including silver, pewter, and lead. Lead was popular due to its softness and durability, allowing for easy molding into shield shapes. At the time, the dangers of lead exposure were not fully understood.
Poisoning Without Awareness
Mothers used lead nipple shields to prevent pain while breastfeeding, unaware of the risks. Prolonged contact allowed lead to leach into breast milk, exposing infants to toxic levels. Some infants developed symptoms such as developmental delays, weakness, and digestive issues, though the connection to lead was not immediately recognized.
Medical Warnings and Safer Materials
By the late 19th century, medical professionals began warning about the dangers of lead poisoning. Alternative materials such as rubber and silver became more common. As scientific understanding grew, lead nipple shields were phased out in favor of safer options.
Lasting Impact of an Overlooked Hazard
Although lead nipple shields disappeared from use, historical examples remain in museum collections. Their existence highlights a time when everyday materials carried hidden risks, unknowingly affecting generations of infants.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, nipple shields were often made from metal, including silver, pewter, and lead. Lead was popular due to its softness and durability, allowing for easy molding into shield shapes. At the time, the dangers of lead exposure were not fully understood.🧵 pic.twitter.com/P7dKzIOo78
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) February 19, 2025