Patent ID: 8056563
Filing Date: 2011-11-15
Classification: A61F,A61J

Abstract:
1. A method of using a nipple protector, comprising: providing a rigid outer shell that defines an outer surface of the nipple protector and includes an inner surface spaced from and opposite to the outer surface, the outer shell made from a rigid material, and a flexible inner member made of a material more flexible than the rigid material of the outer shell, the inner member including a deformable abutting section connected to the rigid outer shell and configured to abut a user's breast, and a cylindrical section extending from the deformable abutting section toward the inner surface of the rigid outer shell; attaching an outer peripheral area of the deformable abutting section of the inner member to the user's breast such that the inner member encircles the nipple of the user's breast and wherein the cylindrical section defines an opening having a central axis about which the inner member encircles the nipple of the user's breast; attaching the cylindrical section to an inner portion of the outer shell at a location closer to the central axis than a location at which the outer peripheral area of the deformable abutting section is attached to the user's breast such that the inner member spaces the rigid outer shell from the nipple of the user's breast.