Breast is not best for contact lenses

Mail Online has been forced to edit an article which claimed breast milk could be used to clean contact lenses and treat conjunctivitis.

‘Numerous medical professionals’ complained about the article, which was syndicated from Daily Mail Australia, arguing both uses suggested were ill-advised and not supported by medical evidence. Contact lens use has since been removed from the story.

Daily Mail Australia assistant managing editor Marnie Mclean said: ‘We sourced the information regarding breast milk cleaning contact lens, as well as treating conjunctivitis from Medical Daily. Further to this, breastfeeding mothers have claimed these uses to be accurate.

‘Accuracy is always of paramount importance to us, as is dealing with any matters requiring attention as swiftly and effectively as possible. It is of course regrettable that upon this occasion these items slipped through the net.’

Daniel Hardiman-McCartney, clinical adviser at the College of Optometrists said: ‘I would strongly advise against using breast milk for anything other than feeding babies. There is no evidence as to it whether it works or whether it is safe, for either cleaning contact lenses or treating conjunctivitis. If it is not stored correctly or becomes contaminated it could result in harm, furthermore its use for anything other than breastfeeding should be discouraged.’