Dr. Samuel Sesah: Why breast milk should not be used to treat eye infections

Across many communities in Ghana and beyond, there is a widely held belief, especially among caring and well-intentioned nursing mothers, that breast milk can be used to treat eye infections.

This practice is often passed down through generations and is rooted in an important truth: breast milk contains protective antibodies that help babies fight infections and grow strong.

While breast milk is undeniably the best source of nutrition for infants and plays a vital role in strengthening their immune systems, it is important to state clearly, responsibly, and based on medical evidence:

Breast milk should NOT be used as a treatment for eye infections.

As an optometrist, eye care professional, and public health advocate, I have seen the serious harm that can result from this misconception. This message is not meant to criticize mothers or caregivers, but rather to protect them and their children by providing accurate, evidence-based information that safeguards vision and eye health.

Understanding Eye Infections

Eye infections can affect people of all ages, but newborns and infants are especially vulnerable because their immune systems and visual structures are still developing. Eye infections may be caused by: bacteria, viruses, fungi, allergens and blocked tear ducts or poor hygiene.

One of the most common eye infections is conjunctivitis (commonly known as “red eye”), which may present with redness, discharge, swelling, tearing, itching, or pain. While some infections appear mild at first, others can worsen rapidly and, if improperly treated, may lead to corneal damage, scarring, or permanent vision loss.

Importantly, different eye infections require different treatments.

Bacterial infections often require prescribed antibiotic eye drops
Viral infections may require supportive care and strict hygiene
Other eye conditions may need specialized assessment and follow-up
Applying any unprescribed substance to the eye, no matter how “natural” or well-intentioned, can worsen the condition, delay healing, and complicate proper diagnosis.
Why Breast Milk Is Unsafe for the Eyes

Although breast milk is beneficial when taken orally, the eye is not designed to receive or process breast milk. Introducing breast milk into the eye carries several significant risks:

1. Risk of Contamination

Breast milk is not sterile. It can contain bacteria from:

The skin
The environment
Improper hand hygiene
Storage containers
When placed directly into the eye, these microorganisms can worsen an existing infection or introduce a new, more severe one.

2. No Proven Medical Benefit

There is no scientific or clinical evidence that breast milk treats or cures eye infections. Any temporary improvement noticed may be coincidental, while the underlying infection continues to progress unnoticed.

3. Worsening of Infection

Breast milk contains natural sugars and proteins. In the eye, these substances can serve as food for bacteria, allowing them to multiply faster and intensify the infection rather than eliminate it.

4. Delayed Proper Treatment

Perhaps the greatest danger is delay. When caregivers rely on breast milk instead of seeking professional eye care, valuable time is lost. Some eye infections, especially in newborns, can cause permanent vision impairment or blindness if not treated promptly and correctly.

Traditional Practices vs. Modern Medical Knowledge

Cultural traditions play an important role in our communities and history, and many traditional remedies have contributed positively to health and healing. However, medicine evolves as new knowledge becomes available.

In eye care, caution is essential. The eye is one of the most delicate organs in the body, and even minor mistakes can result in lifelong consequences.

Using breast milk in the eye is not a harmless home remedy. Medical evidence shows that it is a risky practice that has contributed to preventable eye infections, complications, and avoidable vision loss.

What Nursing Mothers and Caregivers Should Do Instead

If a baby, child, or adult shows signs of an eye infection, such as:

Redness
Discharge
Swelling
Pain
Excessive tearing
Sensitivity to light
The safest and most responsible action is to seek care from a qualified health professional.

While waiting to visit a clinic or hospital:

Gently clean the eye with clean water
Wash hands thoroughly before touching the face or eyes
Avoid rubbing the eyes
Do not share towels, handkerchiefs, or pillows
MOST IMPORTANTLY:

Do not put any substance into the eye unless it has been prescribed specifically for that eye condition by a trained health professional.

A Message of Care, Love, and Protection

Nursing mothers act out of love and a deep desire to heal and protect their children. That love must be supported with accurate information and safe medical practices.

Breast milk remains one of the greatest gifts a mother can give her child, but its place is in nourishment, not in the eye.

At Eye Savers Ghana, our mission is to prevent avoidable blindness through public education, early detection, and access to quality eye care. By letting go of unsafe practices and embracing proven medical guidance, we can protect the vision of our children and our communities.

Let us replace myths with knowledge and fear with informed action.
Healthy eyes are the foundation for learning, opportunity, and a full life, and they deserve to be protected the right way…CONTINUE MORE READING>>>

The author, Dr. Samuel Sesah is the Executive Director of Eye Savers Ghana and a Fellow of American Academy of Optometry

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