Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and selfless acts of love from a mother to her child. It is a true bonding experience, and has a multitude of benefits for both baby and mom. Most new moms are encouraged to breastfeed, and are given resources at their local hospitals, or doctors’ offices to educate them or provide them with necessities for the first few weeks of a breastfeeding experience. However, the majority of the literature and the physical resources available tackle proper latching, how to maintain a good supply, how to handle nursing strikes, etc. But, very hardly, do we ever see women being properly prepared for handling the other side of this incredible task — yes, we are talking about cracked and bleeding nipples, mastitis, teeth and bite marks; just to name a few. Breastfeeding is often portrayed as this calm soothing experience, which do not get us wrong, it absolutely is on of the most beautiful motherly duties, in every sense of the word. But, it highly important and even crucial that new breastfeeding mothers know the dermatological changes (and general breast changes) that come with it, and the medicinal resources available to them to combat these changes effectively, in order to have a positive breastfeeding experience all around.
Some of the most common complaints of breastfeeding mothers is dealing with sore nipples. Without proper care, or with the presence of yeast infection (thrush), psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, or other bacterial infections; this could turn into much more pain and soreness for the affected mom. Cracked and bleeding nipples are more common than they sound as well, especially in the first few days and weeks of breastfeeding and pumping. That is an effective compound like ‘Nipple Cream’ is needed and necessary! Nipple cream comes in 3 different formulas for you and your doctor to choose from, in order to suit your case best.
- Traditional Formula: which contains Mupirocin, Clotrimazole, Betamethasone Acetate, and Topical Lanolin Ointment. Mupirocin is an antibiotic and works by stopping the growth certain bacteria to offer a fast-acting solution for your infection. Clotrimazole is anti-fungal and works quickly to prevent the growth of fungus. Betamethasone Acetate has been proven to treat fungal infections, in addition to its effectiveness to treat other skin conditions as well. And last but not least, Topical Lanolin works by softening and moisturizing the skin and decreasing itching and flaking. It also works extensively to protect the skin against irritations by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin that traps water in the skin. This helps the dead skin cells fall off, helps the skin keep in more water, and leaves the skin feeling smoother and softer.
- Steroid-Free Formula: which contains Nystatin, Miconazole, Mupirocin, and Topical Ointment. Nystatin is, also, an anti-fungal that stops fungal growth. It is best used regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Another effective anti-fungal ingredient in this formula is Miconazole. This double-action of both ingredients will tackle your nipple fungal infection and put it in check! Added to the antibiotic properties of Mupirocin, we are confident that this steroid-free formula will be just as effective as the traditional one. The last ingredient in this formula is the topical ointment to help with an easy comfortable application.
- Non-Medicated Natural Formula: which contains Vitamin E, Olive Oil, and Topical Ointment. Topical vitamin E has emerged as a popular treatment for a number of skin disorders owing to its antioxidant properties. It speeds wound healing and improves the cosmetic outcome of skin cracks and other similar wounds. Olive oil has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is naturally high in squalene, an oil that mimics your skin’s natural sebum, so it’ll leave your skin barrier extra smooth and soft, and it’s also full of antioxidants, including but not limited to Vitamin E, making it even more concentrated in this formula. The topical ointment form helps with an easy comforting application.
All three formulas would be applied the same. Just apply a tiny amount of your compound to your nipples and areola after each breastfeeding session. You do not need to wash this ointment off before the next feeding. Each single ingredient in the three formulas is safe for the mother and baby! The beauty of compounding is that your medication experience is tailored to fit your exact needs and to address your exact situation. Your pharmacist can control which ingredients go into your medication in order to maximize the benefits to your body and to help you get better safer and, often sooner. Of course as usual, there are and will be endless OTC products that promise relief, or commercially-produced medications that promise to treat you, but do not have your specific case or ‘wallet’ in mind. But why would you rather go with a ‘One Size Fits All’ approach with your medication experience, when your pharmacy can compound the right medication for your very specific concern?
Ask us about Nipple Cream today! We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about the formulas, and help you decide which one would be best for you. Also, if you are a breastfeeding mother, reach out to your pharmacist and check which wellness products would help you on this incredible journey and would be of benefit to you and your baby. And, if you’re not, we have other solutions that would help your body after pregnancy and childbirth — ask us about them! We truly think that all moms are super moms, and a fed baby, is a well baby! Whether breastfeeding is part of your mothering journey or not, we are here to support you.
