Akums Collaborates With Fermenta Biotech For Making Breastfeeding Cream Of Mothers

According to research, sore nipples associated with breastfeeding is a common problem with an incidence of 11 per cent to 90 per cent

Akums Drugs and Pharmaceutical Limited, has partnered with Fermenta Biotech Limited for manufacturing one-of-its kind Areola cream which soothes and protects sore and cracked nipples and adjoining area of breastfeeding moms. The collaboration is a step towards the betterment of women’s health in India, especially lactating mothers, the company added.  

This is an exclusive collaboration and for the first time, an Areola cream for lactating mothers is being launched in India and globally. Lanolin is a natural moisturising waxy substance that is derived from Australian sheep wool and provides soothing protection for sore and delicate skin. The ultra-pure lanolin used in the cream is non-sensitizing and hypoallergenic, which makes it completely natural and safe for babies. 

According to research, sore nipples associated with breastfeeding is a common problem with an incidence of 11 per cent to 90 per cent. It is due to poor positioning or attachment of the baby, abrupt detachment of the baby after feeding, skin sensitivity, hormonal changes causing breast tenderness, and climate variability. Its symptoms include redness, soreness, pain or discomfort, fissures, chapped, and dry appearance.  

In a survey, sore and cracked nipples are among the top challenges quoted by Indian mothers for early weaning off breast feed. The Areola cream acts as an emollient and occlusive moisturisers that replenishes stratum corneum lipids and reduces the signs and symptoms of clinically dry and cracked skin. It is dermatologically tested and safe during lactation as it is colourless and tasteless. The product is enriched with other soothing ingredients that nurture the nipple and adjoining breast skin. 

Sandeep Jain, Jt. Managing Director, Akums, said, “The collaboration aimed at manufacturing Areola cream for lactating mothers is just a starting point to transform women and maternal healthcare in India. As part of this association with Fermenta, the novel technology that has been used to make ultra-purified lanolin will be further explored and used in various formulations to treat other critical conditions like psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, nappy rashes etc.”  

The global sore nipple cream segment is growing at a CAGR of 11.4 percent (2019-25). While 78 percent of mothers prefer to breastfeed for at least a year, 40 percent of mothers have reported sore and cracked nipples as a major problem.  

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) · Fermenta Biotech Ltd , Prashant Nagre, said, “For the first time, such a product is launched in India which has been formulated keeping in mind the pain or discomfort that lactating mothers go through. The product moisturises the dry skin of nipples, provides skin softness, and soothes irritation. The best part is that this Areola cream is safe for the mother’s skin as well as the baby’s oral health. Not many women are aware that breastfeeding should be continued for at least two years for the all-round mental and physical development of the baby."

"Most mothers stop breastfeeding their babies after just six months, but they should understand that stopping it can also lead to weight gain and other changes that might affect their health. This is an innovative product as it will encourage mothers to breastfeed without feeling discomfort and continue for two years.”