CRACKED NIPPLE – A CONCEPTUAL STUDY

Cracked nipple, also known as nipple fissure, is one of the most common and distressing problems among lactating women, characterized by linear or superficial breaks in the nipple epithelium. It causes pain during breastfeeding, bleeding, and secondary infection, often resulting in feeding difficulties and early weaning. In Ayurveda, this condition can be correlated with Stanavedhana, Stanakukshi Vrana, or Vata-Pittaja Vrana involving Stanyavaha srotas. The condition arises due to Vata and Pitta vitiation, leading to Rukshata (dryness), Daha (burning), Vedana (pain), and Sphutana (cracks). This conceptual study aims to elaborate the understanding of cracked nipple through Ayurvedic and modern perspectives and to propose preventive and curative management based on classical principles and modern breastfeeding practices.