This line of discussion has me a bit concerned. Both methods (IMHO) are
more of a hindrance than a help in healing sore nipples. Hydrogen peroxide
has been shown to destroy newly developing cells, hence is no longer
recommended in the care of surgical sites. Tea has acid in it, need I say
more? I am currently working with a mother who was advised to use tea bags
on her slightly sore nipples. They have been "burned" to the degree that we
are using hydrogel dressings to try and heal them. She is presently unable
to breastfeed her baby because she was given no guidelines or limitations
on how often or long to use the tea bags. In the past tea bags were used to
"soothe" sore nipples, but should only be used once or twice in a day and
certainly not for more than a day or 2. I personally will not use them any
more.
Mary A. Banaszewski, RN, Lactation Specialist