Tricia and all,
Good points. I agree with most.
When I recently gave a talk on nipple damage and management, I was
surprised to find  evidence that lanolin did work in many studies. The
recent Cochrane review is more rigorous of course in the studies that meet
certain criteria, and I believe it's conclusion.
I think the increased risk of mastitis is not a cause/effect with nipple
creams, but more to the point that poor drainage, inefficient milk removal,
open wounds (with or w/o lanolin) would be the cause. However, I do believe
that women who are putting lots of  creams on, possibly with "dirty" hands,
could be injecting bacteria into the wound. Some women are using old jars
of lanolin and some have just changed a diaper.
So I have never been a fan of lanolin or other multi-ingredient creams. I
recommend air and light, and If a mother has very damaged nipples, I
recommend antibacterial ointment after soap and water gentle cleansing.
Saline rinses or soaks have also been shown to help wound healing.
Laurie Wheeler RN MN IBCLC RLC
enjoying the lingering summer on the Gulf Coast USA

             ***********************************************

Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html
To reach list owners: [log in to unmask]
Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask]
COMMANDS:
1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail
2. To start it again: set lactnet mail
3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome