Babara in relation to your queries regarding what was said in the workshop
about the use of cabbage for engorgement,
<<> They also said cabbage is not recommended because it has not been
 > researched
 > and no studies show that this works and may even be dangerous due to
 > pesticides on it, including e coli which can be fatal to infants. Again,
 > what
 > do ya'll say about these topics.
 > >>
There has been a recenet Cochrane Database Sysem review (2001)--"Treatments
for breast Engorgement during Lactation"   They looked at clinical trials
updated by the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group as well as searching
Cinahl and Medline looking for all randomised and 'quasi-randomised'
controlled trials with or without blinding.  I quote from the MAIN RESULTS
"8 trials involving 424 women, were included.  Three different studies were
identified which cabbage leaves or cabbage leaf extracts: no overall benefit
was found. Ultrasound treatment and placebo were equally effective........."
REVIEWERS CONCLUSIONS" cabbage leaves and gel packs were equally effective
in the treatment of engorgement.  Since both cabbage extract and placebo
were equally effective,  the alleviation in symptoms may be brought about by
other factors, such as massage......"
One of the studies they reviewed in the meta-analysis was  "Effects of
cabbage leaf extract on breast engorgement" Journal of Human Lactation 1998
Sept 14. where 21 subjects used a cream containing a cabbage leaf extract
and 18 subjects used a placebo cream.  "The two groups showing no difference
on all outcome measures".  The reviewers concluded that that feeding had the
greatest relief on discomfort and decreasing tissue hardness.  Prevention by
frequent feeding seems to be the key priority and breast feeding also
appears to be the best treatment.
However a Medline search did not bring any results about an increased risk
of E-coli infection with cabbage leaves.  If washed thoroughly prior to use
this should negate any risk.  Thorough washing should also wash off
pesticides.
Marian Rigney RN


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