An evaluation of the effect ov lanolin in healing nipple injuries

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of anhydrous lanolin-based ointment in the process of healing nipple injuries. METHODS: This is a descriptive experimental study was performed in two Maternity Hospitals in Sao Paulo. The random sample consisted of 50 puerperium women with nipple injuries, hospitalized in the period of June 2002 to July 2003. Participants were randomly assigned into control and experimental groups, by the means of a draw. Statistical analysis was performed using Qui-square, Student's t test, and ANOVA (á at 5%). RESULTS: The size of the injury in the control group reduced in 0.41 ± 0.11 cm (right breast) and 0.29 ± 0.06 cm (left breast) compared to the experimental group, from the first to the second evaluation (p < 0.001), showing to be statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The lanolin is effective in treating nipple injuries.