Journal of human lactation : official journal of International Lactation Consultant Association
-
Comparative Study
Nipple pain during breastfeeding with or without visible trauma.
Nipple pain is a major cause of early weaning. The causes of nipple pain are diverse, and most treatments involve experience-based assessment. There is little knowledge of the intensity or variation in pain experienced by breastfeeding women. Given the high breastfeeding initiation rates, it is important to evaluate pain experienced by lactating women in detail. ⋯ The ramifications of nipple pain extend far beyond the act of breastfeeding, particularly for women whose pain lasts several months. Given the lack of evidence-based treatments, it is not surprising that pain is a major contributor to premature weaning. Further research into the causes of nipple pain is necessary to enable the implementation of effective interventions, thus reducing further complications such as infection and postnatal depression. Detailed pain analysis may assist in assessing the success of these interventions.