Effects of 660-nm Photobiomodulation Therapy on Pain and Healing of Nipple Trauma in Lactating Women: A Pilot Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial

To evaluate the effects of PBMT (λ = 660 nm) on pain, breastfeeding quality, and healing of nipple injuries.

This randomized, double-blind, controlled pilot trial included 20 lactating postpartum women with nipple trauma. Participants were divided into PBMT (standard care + active PBMT) and Placebo (standard care + sham) groups. Interventions occurred up to seven sessions over 15 days. PBMT parameters: 660 nm, 40 mW, 10 J/cm², and 0.4 W/cm² for 10s per point (one central and four peripheral points). Assessments included the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), LATCH Scale, Nipple Trauma Score (NTS), and photogrammetry.

Most participants (90%) presented bilateral excoriations or fissures. The PBMT group showed significantly greater pain reduction from the third session onward (p < 0.05), achieving total analgesia by the seventh, whereas the Placebo group maintained higher VAS scores. Although both groups improved their breastfeeding technique, the PBMT group showed superior post-intervention LATCH scores. Furthermore, PBMT significantly accelerated tissue repair from the third session onward. The PBMT group reached complete lesion regression (NTS = 0), while the Placebo group maintained residual trauma (NTS = 1).

PBMT combined with clinical management is effective for pain relief, tissue repair, and improving breastfeeding quality. It serves as a promising adjuvant resource to prevent complications and support the maintenance of exclusive breastfeeding.