Breast Shell Market

Breast Shell Market Growth Outlook (2023 to 2033)

The global breast shell market is valued at US$ 120 million in 2023 and is expected to reach a market size of US$ 220 million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 6.2% over the next ten years.

The market is projected to expand rapidly as more breast shells are sold through online channels. Leading online retailers are resorting to various marketing strategies to increase their sales, including discounts, freebies, and buy-one-get-one offers.

Breast shells, which are hollow, delicate plastic discs worn within the brassiere, help correct flat or inverted nipples either before or during breastfeeding. They are also known as Woolwich shields, breast shields, milk cups, and breast cups.

Breast shells work by applying light to moderate pressure on the area around the nipple to loosen underlying adhesions and bring the nipple out. While breast shells and nipple shields might be confused, breast shells are worn prior to or after nursing, whereas nipple shields are worn during the act of breastfeeding.

Increasing consumer awareness of the benefits associated with breastfeeding accessories is boosting demand for breast shells. The need for breast shells is projected to increase as birth rates rise across the world.

The market for breast shells is expected to be driven by an increase in the number of breastfeeding women across the world. This means that if the percentage of breastfeeding moms rises, more women are likely to develop nipple fissures, which will lead to a rise in the usage of breast shells.

• As per BabyCenter, LLC, nipple fissures affect around 90% of breastfeeding mothers.

It is anticipated that an increase in breastfeeding women and a heightened risk of nipple fissures would aid in market expansion throughout the projection period. Nipples that are inverted or flat make it difficult for a newborn to latch on correctly, which can further cause issues such as painful nipples.

• According to Flo Health, LLC, around 35% of women have flat nipples.

Flat nipples irritate the skin and might break and bleed since they don't give a healthy latch for the infant to feed on. Breast shell use may rise throughout the forecast period since breast shells can help correct flat or inverted nipples.

People are becoming more aware of the advantages of breastfeeding and breastmilk. Several awareness campaigns conducted by international agencies regarding the benefits of human milk and breastfeeding are another significant influential aspect favoring market growth. These awareness programs are anticipated to increase the percentage of breastfeeding mothers, fueling market expansion.

Individuals can determine if a product is essential to them or not after becoming familiar with all items and services. In addition, they weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the items and decide consciously before purchasing. These factors have a significant impact on the market expansion.

Report Attributes	Details
Breast Shell Market Size (2023)	US$ 120 Million
Projected Market Value (2033)	US$ 220 Million
Global Market Growth Rate (2023 to 2033)	6.2% CAGR
Market Share of Silicone Breast Shells (2023)	60%
Key Companies Profiled	Chicco; PIGEON Corporation; Artsana Group; Medela, LLC; Ardo Medical, Ltd.; Koninklijke Philips N.V; Magento, Inc.; Willow Innovations, Inc.; Chiaro Technology Limited; Pigeon Corporation; Spectra Baby; Motif Medical; Mayborn Group Limited

What’s Paving the Way for Breast Shell Manufacturers?

“Huge Demand for Technologically-advanced Breastfeeding Solutions”

A growing focus on innovative product developments associated with breastfeeding, for women who have a hard, low milk supply and those suffering from cracked or sore nipples, has been influencing the demand for breast shells. Key manufacturers shift their focus towards offering innovative products, with added benefits such as superior comfort, a natural appearance under clothes, and easy cleaning.

Prominent breast shell manufacturers are concentrating on the creation of more clean and user-friendly breast shells, as cleanliness and comfort are the two most important factors that customers consider when purchasing items that come into direct contact with the skin.

Top breast shell providers have been inspired to build personalized nursing accessories that fit breast forms and stop stains from spilling by women's continuing need for comfort. Tech-savvy women have been drawn to breast shells with plenty of features, which has created profitable opportunities for businesses in terms of new developments.

“Rise in Working Women Population”

Mothers now have access to every amenity they might need to care for their children. As a result, mothers tend to keep themselves equipped with all essential amenities that enable them to take care of their children while working.

An increase in working women across the globe has been directly impacting the sales of breast shells. Working mothers are relying on technologically-advanced solutions for breastfeeding on account of their busier lifestyles and haste to rejoin the workforce post-maternity, which in turn will continue to boost market growth.

The market is expanding as a result of rising breastfeeding rates. These products assist mothers in controlling the leakage problems that develop while breastfeeding. Also, the need for widely accessible infant care products such as nursing breast pads has grown due to the growing levels of employment for women globally.

“Increasing Need for Breast Shells among Women Suffering from Breast Engorgement”

Women who have suffered engorgement outside of the early postpartum period, which can result in mastitis, clogged ducts, and even abscesses, continue to adopt breast shells at significant rates. Additionally, global demand for breast shells among women with engorgement is also sustained by their benefits, such as the prevention of pain and irritation.

Apart from facilitating breast milk collection, key benefits linked with breast shells, including the protection of sore and cracked nipples from friction against breastfeeding clothes, continue to advocate their use among consumers.

What Could Inhibit Breast Shell Demand Growth?

“Lack of Knowledge Regarding Breastfeeding Products and Presence of Breast Milk Alternatives”

Growing popularity and acceptance of breast milk substitutes, such as infant formulas, along with appealing marketing campaigns performed by manufacturers of these products, may pose a potential threat to market expansion. However, the adoption and implementation of policies to protect and promote breastfeeding will continue to favor sales of breast shells.

Consumers, particularly in developing and low-income countries, lack knowledge regarding breastfeeding products and accessories. This, coupled with several aspects of social stigma and cultural perceptions towards breastfeeding, may impede market growth.

Which Region Holds a Leading Position in the Global Breast Shell Market?

“Growing Consumer Inclination towards Advanced Solutions for Breast Milk Collection in North America”

• North America currently dominates the market with a revenue share of around 50%.

North America continues to be the leading market for breast shells, attributed to the growing consumer inclination towards technology-driven solutions for breast milk collection or breastfeeding. Market expansion is aided by breastfeeding awareness programs, which aim to inform and educate women about the benefits of breastfeeding both during pregnancy and after delivery.

Country-wise Insights

Why is the United States Commanding the North American Market?

“Growing Public Awareness of Importance of Breastfeeding”

The market in the United States is anticipated to rise significantly throughout the projection period due to a rise in the local supply of breastfeeding accessories. A rise in breastfeeding rates and hygienic breastfeeding practices and growing public awareness of the importance of breastfeeding.

Why is Germany Considered a Profitable Market for Breast Shell Manufacturers?

“Surging Government Efforts to Support Breastfeeding in Public Places”

The market in Germany is being driven by increasing government efforts to support breastfeeding in public places. Enhanced healthcare infrastructure and huge demand for breast pumps are supporting market expansion.

Category-wise Insights

Why are Silicone Breast Shells Highly Demanded?

“Silicone Breast Shells More Preferred Due to Their Greater Comfort”

Based on material type, the market is classified into silicone breast shells and polypropylene breast shells.

• Silicone breast shells account for 60% share of the global market.

Consumers have been showing a marked preference for silicone breast shells, in light of their greater comfort and easy adaptation to distinct breast contours. Additionally, the presence of pores small enough to aid ventilation while refraining leakage is another key attribute of silicone breast shells that have been driving their preference among consumers.

Which Sales Channel is Generating High in This Space?

“Online Channels Gaining Traction Owing to Easy Availability of Breast Shells at Affordable Prices”

The market is segmented into online channels, pharmacies/drug stores, modern trade, and other sales channels based on sales channel. Sales of breast shells through online channels are expected to rise over the forecast period due to the easy availability of breast shells.

A shift in consumer preference away from physical stores and towards online retailers, that provide such items at reasonable prices is boosting the sales of breast shells through online channels. Customers may evaluate items based on their brand, category, point of sale, and price with the aid of the e-Commerce channel and select the best options.

Competitive Landscape

Top breast shell manufacturers are concentrating on quality control, pricing trends, supply chain management, and updating their product portfolios following safety regulations to increase their customer base. They are improving product standards because many consumers choose new technologies and items with enhanced features.

For instance,

• In May 2018, Ameda revealed the expansion of its premium products line, including Ameda MoistureGuard™ Premium Nursing Pads, Ameda PumpEase® Hands-Free Pumping Bra, and Ameda Triple Zero Lanolin™ to support breastfeeding and breast pumping needs for mothers.
• In April 2019, Medela LLC, announced that it has entered into a partnership with Mamava, the inventors of the first lactation pod, to support employers to provide the infrastructure, products, and services for breastfeeding working women.

Key Segments Covered in Breast Shell Industry Research

• By Material Type :

  • Silicone
  • Polypropylene

• By Sales Channel :

  • Online Channels
  • Pharmacies/Drug Stores
  • Modern Trade
  • Other Sales Channels

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East & Africa