I called our local poison control center last year about this exact treatment.  An obstetrician had told a client to do this and I was actually hopeful it would be okay.  They were appalled and gave me stats on apnea and death from ingestion of even tiny amounts.  I have since cautioned mom's who are using this stuff for teething relief to use it very sparingly as topical only.  
tracy
tracy throckmorton rn, ibclc
portland, oregon
mailto:[log in to unmask]


-----Original Message-----
From:   Gail Davis [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
Sent:   Thursday, September 16, 1999 1:07 PM
Subject:        treatment for sore nipples

     For sore nipples, my question is this:  Has anyone ever recommended
     numbing the nipples with infant teething gel such as Ambesol?  I am
     assuming that it would be safe for the baby to ingest since it is made
     for babies.

     Here are the particulars: Mom is experiencing very painful nipples at
     6 weeks postpartum.  She is exclusively breastfeeding with good latch
     and positioning; baby doing great.  She has very sensitive nipples,
     (which were even painful while she was pregnant.)  Her nipples are
     very pliable, and long.  They look a little pink.  She and the baby
     were treated for yeast,(just on her pain sysptoms) and she is doing
     yeast dietary measures.  She is even boiling her bras.   She is not
     leaking, so not wearing wet bra or pads. Baby does not appear to have
     any mouth abnormality. I did recommend shells with the large opening
     in back, just to keep the bra from touching her nipples.

     Gail Davis, PHN, IBCLC

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