Effects of both Aloe Vera gel and breast milk on the improvement of nipple soreness in lactating women—A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

BackgroundNipple soreness is an ordinary disturbance during the lactating period. With high prevalence of nipple soreness and its effects on lactating, there is evidence that Aloe Vera gel as an anti-inflammatory and anti-infection herb may be an appropriate treatment. PurposeThe purpose of this study is to determine the effect of Aloe Vera gel on improving nipple soreness in lactating women. MethodsThis randomized controlled trial was conducted on 110 primiparous lactating women randomly separated into two groups. In the Aloe Vera gel group, women applied 0.5 cc of Aloe Vera gel and the control group applied four drops of their own milk on their nipple and areola after each feeding. Then, the two groups were checked on days 10 and 14 postpartum. The visual analogue scale for pain intensity and Amir Scale for the severity of damage, and the existence or lack of nipple discharge was also recorded. The data were analyzed by the SPSS21software. ResultsThe mean intensity of pain and nipple damage before treatment and 10 days after delivery and before treatment and 14 days after delivery in the intervention group had a significant difference (P <0.001). In comparison of nipple discharge between the two groups before treatment and 10days after delivery and before treatment and 14 days after delivery, indicated a significant difference (P<0.001). ConclusionAccording to the study, it seems that Aloe Vera gel can improve nipple soreness.