[Comparison of nipple care in the Puerperium with powder and ointment (author's transl)].

Recommendations for the care of the nipple postpartum are numerous and variable. Cracks and fissures in the nipple must be prevented to prevent mastitis. A randomized prospective study shows that it does not matter whether powder or ointments or nothing is placed on the nipples after nursing. The incidence of cracked nipples is not significantly changed by theses measures. For the prevention of mastitis the general measures for the prevention of hospital acquired infections are necessary and more important than modifications of the nipple care.