Red Light Therapy for Breastfeeding Moms in Iowa

A new topic in lactation support!

So many of our expecting moms think breastfeeding will be natural and easy. We sure hope that is the case for you! However, we also know that some curveballs often come during the breastfeeding journey. Introducing red light therapy during breastfeeding can help address issues such as nipple or breast injury that can happen, too. 

Enter red light therapy (RLT), a noninvasive treatment that might help with tissue healing! During a recent Polk County Breastfeeding Journal Review session, we examined this therapy to see if it would help our local moms. 

Spoiler Alert! Our study group decided that this might be a good option for tissue healing BUT we also agreed that it needs to be done in conjuction with an IBCLC to address the issues that caused the tissue damage or concerns in the first place. We also realized that not all red light therapies are the same, so we would encourage mothers to seek a trained and licensed professional who knows how to implement this therapy safely and effectively. Have questions? Send me an email and we can chat! katie@theiowababylady.com. 

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, involves using red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity. This non-invasive treatment has been used for various health conditions, including skin rejuvenation, pain relief, and wound healing¹. The therapeutic effects of red light are attributed to its ability to penetrate the skin and enhance cell function, leading to potential improved tissue repair.

Note that medical-grade laser therapy can permeate the skin layers even more. I recently met with a doctor in Ankeny who offers medical-grade laser tissue therapy for breastfeeding moms. I was surprised that healing can be done after only one or two treatments! Let me know if you’d like more info.

Enhancing Milk Supply

One of the primary concerns for breastfeeding mothers is maintaining an adequate milk supply. Several factors can influence milk production, including stress, hormonal imbalances, and physical discomfort¹. Red light therapy may positively affect milk supply through the following ways:

• Improved Blood Flow: Red light therapy enhances circulation, ensuring that essential nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the breast tissue. Improved blood flow can support the overall health of mammary glands and potentially increase milk production.
• Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation can hinder milk production. Red light therapy has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the breast tissue, promoting a healthier environment for milk production.
• Stress Reduction: Stress is a known inhibitor of lactation. Red light therapy has been shown to have a calming effect, reducing stress levels and potentially supporting better hormonal balance, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy milk supply.

Nipple Pain & Wound Healing

Nipple pain is a common issue for breastfeeding mothers, often caused by improper latch, infections, or engorgement. Red light therapy can help alleviate this pain and promote healing:

• Pain Relief: Studies have shown that red light therapy can reduce nipple pain by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
• Wound Healing: Red light therapy can accelerate the healing process of nipple fissures and other wounds, making breastfeeding more comfortable.

Research Supporting Red Light Therapy

Recent studies have explored the benefits of red light therapy for breastfeeding mothers:

1. Elseody MHAA, Mohamed MAE, Alsharnoubi J. Could Photobiomodulation help lactating women and their newborns? Lasers Med Sci. 2024 Jul 24;39(1):192. doi: 10.1007/s10103-024-04132-w. PMID: 39046567; PMCID: PMC11269476.
2. Monique Ralph et al. (2023): This study investigated the efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) at 660 nm in post-natal women with nipple pain. Although the results were inconclusive due to low participant numbers, the study highlighted the simplicity, safety, and support provided by PBMT2.