Device and method for delivering an agent into breast milk while breastfeeding

A device for preventing the transmission of disease during breastfeeding, said device comprising:

• (a) an inlet for milk, said inlet defined by a breast shield;
• (b) a therapeutic non-woven matrix downstream from said inlet, said matrix adapted to allow milk to pass through without significantly affecting the flow rate and being securely engaged with said breast shield by a retention lip formed by a circumferential protrusion of the breast shield located upstream of said matrix;
• and
• (c) an outlet downstream from said matrix, said outlet defined by said breast shield and suitable for suckling, wherein said matrix occupies substantially the entire cross section of said outlet.

A method of delivering an agent into breast milk while breastfeeding comprising the acts of:

• securing an agent-eluting matrix within the hollow nipple portion of a breast shield by engaging with a retention lip projecting inwardly into the nipple portion of said breast shield, wherein said matrix occupies substantially the entire cross section of said nipple portion;
• positioning the breast shield on the breast of a lactating user;
• and
• allowing the intended recipient of said agent to suckle said breast shield.