Literature review for - Flourish Paediatrics

Nipple Piercing
Search results
The initial search of the databases included 9 references on nipple piercings and
breastfeeding. Data were extracted from 4 references (2 narrative reviews, 1 case-series, 1
commentary) but the evidence was insufficient to develop a body of evidence statement.
Notes on nipple piercings during breastfeeding
Armstrong and colleagues conducted a review on pregnancy, lactation and nipple piercing
reported possible complications related to nipple piercings and lactation including; aspiration
of jewellery parts by an infant, the jewellery impairing infants suck, metal nipple jewellery
causing trauma to the infant’s lips, palate, tongue and gums, milk being ejected from the tract
created by removing the piercing, scar tissue constricting milk ducts and interfering with milk
flow. Armstrong and colleagues cited case-report of poor quality and did not have sufficient
evidence to estimate the risk ratio of such adverse events occurring when breastfeeding with a
nipple piercing (Armstrong, Caliendo et al. 2006).
Martin’s commentary in the Journal of Human Lactation warns of similar potentially
hazardous events occurring when breastfeeding with a nipple piercing including; loss of
sensation to the nipple, inadequate milk transfer, poor latch, plugged ducts, mastitis, and poor
weight gain in the infant (Martin 2004). To overcome this barrier to breastfeeding Martin
suggests mothers use a temporary piece of jewellery called a retainer (smooth plastic tube
that can be removed and reinserted easily) (Martin 2004). Retainer can be used as a way of
facilitating breastfeeding and retaining or preventing the closure of a piercing.
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