Hi,

The staff in hospital should be able to provide nipple shields and help you to use them. If they are not keen on the idea, point out how painful it is to feed and ask them what the risks of using a nipple shield are. They may say that they believe they may decrease the milk supply. However, there is really no evidence for this - say you would like to try them. It would be preferable to use a nipple shield than give up all together. Ask to see a lactation consultant.
When you have problems in the early days the important thing is to feed the baby - your milk direct from the breast or expressed. And maintain your milk supply - the rest can be sorted out