Nipple Thrush from Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is often a blissful experience, but it sometimes comes with discomforts like nipple thrush. Nipple thrush is a fungal condition that can cause irritation and pain. Like other yeast infections, it’s caused by an overgrowth of candida (yeast), which is commonly found on the skin and mucous membranes, explained Rebecca Keith, M.D., a board-certified OBGYN at OB Hospitalists of Kentucky, part of Pediatrix® Medical Group. According to Dr. Keith, an overgrowth of candida can also be caused by cracked or damaged nipples (sometimes from improper latching), antibiotic use by the mother or nipple irritation from wearing breast pads for long periods of time. Nipple thrush doesn’t necessarily look the same for everyone, she said. “The nipple may be unusually pink or red, flaky or cracked or blistered. Women may see tiny blisters or fissures (cracks). Sometimes the nipple may look normal, but excess candida is still present.”

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