by Jack Newman, MD, FRCPC
Gentian violet (1% solution in water) is an excellent treatment for Candida albicans.
Candida albicans is a yeast which may cause an infection of skin and/or mucous
membranes in both children and adults. In small children, this yeast may cause white
patches in the mouth (thrush), or diaper rash. When the nursing mother has a yeast
infection of the nipple, she may experience severe nipple pain, as well as deep breast
pain.
Nipple pain caused by Candida albicans
The pain caused by a yeast infection is generally different from the pain caused by
poor positioning and/or ineffective suckling. The pain caused by a yeast infection:
is often burning in nature, rather than the sharp, stabbing or pinching pain
associated with other causes. Burning pain may be due to other causes, however, and pain
due to a yeast infection does not necessarily burn.
frequently lasts throughout the feeding, and occasionally continues after the feeding
has ended. This is in contrast to the pain due to other causes which usually hurts most as
feeding begins, and gradually improves as the baby nurses.
may radiate into the mother's armpit or into her back.
may cause no change in appearance of the mother's nipples or areolas,
though there may be redness, or some scaling, or the skin of the areola may be
smooth and shiny.
not uncommonly will begin after a period of pain free nursing. This characteristic alone
is reason enough to try treatment for yeast. However, milk blisters on the nipple also may
cause nipple pain after a period of pain free nursing.
may be associated with recent use of antibiotics by the baby or mother, but not
necessarily.
may be quite severe, may or may not be itchy.
may occur only in the breast. This pain is often described as
“shooting”, or “burning” in nature, and is often worse after the
feeding is over. It is often said to be worse at night. At the same time, the breast
appears or feels normal. This is not mastitis and there is no reason
to treat with antibiotics. On the contrary, antibiotics may make the problem worse.
Please Note:
The baby does not have to have thrush in his mouth.
A yeast infection of the nipple may be combined with other causes of soreness.
Using Gentian Violet
We believe that gentian violet is the best treatment of nipple soreness due to Candida
albicans for the breastfeeding mother. This is because it works almost always, and
relief is rapid. It is messy, and will stain clothing, but not skin. The baby's
lips will turn purple, but the purple will disappear after a few days. Gentian violet is
available without prescription but is not available at all pharmacies. Call around before
going out to get it.
About 10 ml (two teaspoons) of gentian violet is more than enough for an entire
treatment.
Many mothers prefer doing the treatment just before bed so that they can keep their
nipples exposed and not worry about staining their clothing. The baby should be undressed
to his diaper, and the mother should be uncovered from the waist up. Gentian violet is
messy.
