I used a nipple shield for DS1's entire feedings...we fed til 11months. It was my lifesaver, but it also was a hindrance (especially now that've I've seen the other side with DS2). It was so much easier to attach him and painfree, but it also meant I had to have them everywhere I went, so if he wanted a feed (which sometimes could be unpredictable) I could provide. This time with DS2, for the first couple of weeks I struggled a little - but hesitated to start with the shields, just took the pain. I was about to look into a LC but then thankfully we worked it out, just in time. Now I don't have to worry about washing, sterilising, packing them safely (and enough of them) for our adventures out or even have them on the ready for the varying amounts night feeds. So yeah, I agree give them a go to ease the pain temporarily, but do try to find an LC to help. Goodluck - I hope you find something that works and eases the pain, because at the end of the day thats what matters.