Treatments for cracked nipples while breastfeeding: a synthesis of evidence.

Authors

  • Mariela Marisela Sáez Yefilaf Universidad de La Frontera
  • Ruth Prieto-Gómez Universidad de la Frontera
  • Camila Paredes-Díaz Universidad de la Frontera
  • Alexandra Vega-Cifuentes Universidad de la Frontera
  • Araceli Saavedra-Sepúlveda Universidad de la Frontera

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22370/revmat.1.2023.3722

Keywords:

Breastfeeding, Lactation disorder, Nipple, Mammary gland, Lactation

Abstract

Objective: To describe the current management recommended to health professionals for the treatment of nipple cracks associated with breastfeeding based on scientific evidence.

Material and methods: Literature review in different databases such as Pubmed, Embase, Lilacs, among others. Applying filters and selection criteria, 15 articles were obtained in this evidence synthesis.

Results: Nipple cracks are generally observed between the third and seventh day after delivery and can continue up to six weeks later, ranking it as the second leading factor in the abandonment of breastfeeding. Regarding the origin, it has been shown that the position and incorrect coupling are considered the most common causes that generate nipple cracks. There is no single method for the prevention or treatment of cracked nipples.

Conclusion: A standard treatment for nipple cracks is not recommended, but it will depend on the type of injury. According to the present review and evaluation of the articles, breast milk can be considered effective only if the nipple is red and there is and there is no continuous loss of skin. If this is the case, it is recommended to keep the area clean avoiding moisture to promote tissue healing.

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Author Biographies

Ruth Prieto-Gómez, Universidad de la Frontera

Matrona. Departamento de Pediatría y Cirugía Infantil, Universidad de La Frontera. Chile.

Camila Paredes-Díaz, Universidad de la Frontera

Internas Carrera de Obstetricia y Puericultura Universidad de La Frontera. Chile.

Alexandra Vega-Cifuentes, Universidad de la Frontera

Internas Carrera de Obstetricia y Puericultura Universidad de La Frontera. Chile.

Araceli Saavedra-Sepúlveda, Universidad de la Frontera

Matrona. Departamento de Salud Pública, Universidad de La Frontera. Chile.

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Published

2023-12-04

How to Cite

1.
Sáez Yefilaf MM, Prieto-Gómez R, Paredes-Díaz C, Vega-Cifuentes A, Saavedra-Sepúlveda A. Treatments for cracked nipples while breastfeeding: a synthesis of evidence. . Mat.Actual [Internet]. 2023 Dec. 4 [cited 2025 Sep. 7];(1):9. Available from: https://margenes.uv.cl/index.php/matroneria/article/view/3722