Effect of aloe vera gel on nipple sores

Objective: It is estimated that 80-90% of breastfeeding women experience nipple soreness. In this study we evaluated the effect of Aloe Vera gel compared with breast milk on nipple sores. Methods: This clinical trial study was performed in the neonatal ward of the Ghaem Hospital in Mashhad (Iran) from June 2009 to December 2009. Mothers were divided randomly into two groups:  Aloe Vera application and breast milk application. After feeding their babies, the mothers used the preparation on their nipples 3 times a day  and then let to dry without washing until the next feeding for 7 days. Breasts were examined before treatment, 3 and 7 days after treatment and graded using a scale and interview. Then data was analyzed with SPSS 11.5 software and MannWhitney, t student and paired t-tests.   Results: A total of 100 patients were enrolled (50 in each group). In the Aloe Vera group sore nipple scores decreased significantly on days 3 and 7 versus pretreatment (p= 0.000) compared to the breast milk group (p= 0.028). Conclusion: Aloe vera was more effective than breast milk on nipple sores.