Background: Use of lanolin has become a cultural norm while the evidence is conflicting on its safety and efficacy. Little to no evidence is available on the relationship between lanolin and infection.
Methods: This is a feasibility study, using case control retrospective chart review, examining lanolin use and the development signs and symptoms of nipple or breast infection in breastfeeding mothers with nipple pain. Fungal infection versus bacterial infection was suspected according to the corresponding effective treatment.
Results: Lanolin users were suspected to have a 62% infection rate, as compared to non-lanolin users at 18%, odds ratio 7.5 (2.4-23.4). Though not significant, fungal infection may have been more frequent than bacterial infection based on effective corresponding treatment.
Conclusion: A randomized control trial is called for to determine if frequent lanolin use increases the risk of nipple or breast infection.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1: Critically examine the cultural
norm of lanolin use
Objective 2: Review nipple / breast infection , wound care and asepsis
Objective 3: Consider a possible relationship between lanolin use and breast infections
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