An interesting donation to Wise Woman Archives Trust Inc. was received from midwife Sue Bogaard of the Bay of Plenty. As alarming as it seems today, these lead nipple shields were probably still in use until at least the early 20th Century, being “recommended by the most eminent medical men for the prevention and cure of sore nipples”. Today lead is recognised as a toxic heavy metal and all skin contact with it, or ingestion of it, should be avoided.

Lead nipple shields
Wise Woman Archives Trust Inc

Do you have any further information about the use of these?