Managing Milk Leakage in Breastfeeding Women: A Clinical Trial Evaluating a Polyvinyl Chloride Device Versus Disposable Nursing Pads

Abstract

The object of this clinical trial was to evaluate the effectiveness and to investigate possible problems associated with the use of a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) device ("blis") compared to a disposable nursing pad, for controlling milk leakage among nursing mothers. Seventy one women completed the single blind, paired comparison, randomized trial. Among the 28 women having a strong early preference, 21 opted for the PVC device (p=0.01). Of the 37 women experiencing excessive milk leakage who preferred one of the devices, 24 preferred the PVC device (p=0.05). There was no evidence that one device caused more problems or feeding complications than the other. This study is important in alleviating anxiety about device safety while promoting breastfeeding in mothers fearful of leaking at inopportune times.

Keywords

breastfeeding lactation leakage control

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