Experience with nipple shields

My LO is 3 weeks old. He’s predominately breastfed but man! It hurts- a lot. It’s getting to the point where I almost dread getting him on the breast because it feels like straight up needles, especially when he latches initially. It’s gets a little better after those first few seconds, but it’s getting to the point that even the shower drops feel like shots from a BB gun.

He was born at 36+6 and has a small mouth, so I’m guessing it’s just that while he is latching enough to empty my breasts and is gaining good weight, it’s not a deep enough latch to keep it from hurting like a mofo.

Anyone have success with little mouth babes and a breast shield helping with the pain/discomfort? I pump and he takes a bottle as well but I would really prefer him at the breast as much as possible. TIA!