Laser light may soothe sore nipples for breastfeeding moms

NCT ID NCT04259619

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether low-level laser therapy can reduce pain and help heal sore, cracked nipples in breastfeeding women. About 96 women with painful nipple lesions were randomly assigned to receive either real laser or a placebo light treatment. The goal was to see if the laser could ease pain and speed wound healing, potentially helping mothers breastfeed longer.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Low-Level Laser Therapy
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simple, low-risk way to ease pain and speed healing for sore nipples, helping mothers breastfeed longer.
What could go wrong
The trial was terminated early with only 96 participants, so results are limited. The placebo device also emits red light, which may have some effect, making it hard to prove the laser's benefit.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University Hospital Zurich

    Zurich, Canton of Zurich, 8091, Switzerland