Many women experience infection of some kind while breast-feeding their babies. Staph infections are extremely painful and uncomfortable and should be treated by a doctor. Normally, breast-feeding can continue as usual.
Identification
Staph infections are actually quite common and usually do not cause severe problems. In nursing mothers, staph infections can sometimes cause cracked and sore nipples.
Misconceptions
Not all breast infections are caused by staph. Fungal infections are another common cause of breast tenderness, cracking of nipples or infection.
A staph infection does not require weaning. Most antibiotics are safe to take while breast-feeding. Consult with your doctor to determine whether you can continue breast-feeding as normal.
Staph infection cannot be passed through milk. However, the bacteria is contagious, and your baby should not be exposed to contaminated bedding or any other contagious source.
Treatment
Staph infections are treated with antibiotics. Although many staph infections respond to methicillin, fewer than 10 percent react to penicillin. Additionally, stronger strains of staph have developed. They are known as methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In these circumstances, vancomycin is usually prescribed.
Prevention/Solution
Staph infections can be prevented by practicing good hygiene. This is especially important for breast-feeding mothers. Be sure to change bras frequently, particularly if you have cracked nipples. Any open wounds should be cleaned and covered. Wash hands frequently, particularly after touching affected areas.
Warning
Regular checkups are important, particularly for breast-feeding mothers with staph infections. Lack of care could result in breast abscess, which may require surgery. Additionally, be sure to monitor your baby for any signs of staph. If you are using a breast pump to store milk, be sure to sanitize all equipment, so the infection is not passed on to baby.
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