Could Photobiomodulation help lactating women and their newborns?

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Lactation Support
• Dermatology

Background:

• Nipple pain and fissures are common complications during early breastfeeding.
• These issues often lead to early cessation of breastfeeding.
• Effective treatments are needed to support breastfeeding mothers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy versus topical anti-inflammatory cream for treating inflamed nipples.
• To assess the impact of these treatments on milk production and infant weight.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 50 breastfeeding women with nipple pain and fissures.
• Group I (25 patients) received 12 PBM sessions using a Diode laser over 4 weeks.
• Group II (25 patients) used an anti-inflammatory topical cream.

Main Results:

• PBM group showed significant reduction in redness by weeks 3 and 4.
• Nipple fissure and pain significantly decreased in the PBM group by week 3.
• A significant increase in milk production, reflected by infant weight, was observed in the PBM group.

Conclusions:

• Photobiomodulation therapy is more effective than topical anti-inflammatory creams for reducing nipple pain and inflammation.
• PBM therapy positively impacts milk production and infant weight gain in breastfeeding mothers.