When people think about yeast infections they most often first think about vaginal yeast infections, which is understandable since they are the most common, however they are not the only type. A Breast yeast infection is another type which, as the name implies, is a yeast infection on or around a woman’s breasts. This, like all types of this infection, are caused by the Candida fungus on or in the skin. This fungus can grow rapidly in warm, moist dark areas which is one reason why women with larger breasts are much more likely to get them. They typically start under the breast but can spread through the chest area.

A breast yeast infection has a very distinctive appearance which makes it easy to identify. This infection will cause redness and swelling around the affected area. In some cases there can be oozing, itchiness and small red patches around the rash. For more severe cases the skin can peel off and be very painful. If the infection is not treated the infection will likely remain indefinitely, possibly expanding but often just staying localized to the area under the breasts.

Breast Yeast Infection Prevention and Cure

Fortunately, a breast yeast infection is fairly easy to cure and preventing this type of yeast infection is also relatively simple. Since the fungus that causes this infection is the same as that which causes athlete’s foot the easiest way to stop the infection is to get some over the counter athlete’s foot medication. Spraying it on the affected area according to the instructions on the bottle will resolve the issue within a few days.

For ladies who are more prone to get this type of infection it is best to work to prevent it before it arrives. The most important thing to do for preventing yeast infections of any kind is to keep the area dry. There are several things to do to help ensure the area under the breasts stays dry and fungus free.

• Use a hair dryer after baths or showers

Using a hair dryer to ensure the area is entirely dry after a shower is the best way to start each day. Beginning the day dry can actually help ensure the area stays dry as well.

• Apply baby powder

Once the area is completely dry, apply a small amount of baby powder or talcum powder to keep it moisture free all day. It doesn’t take much but can provide significant advantages. Some ladies have found that sprinkling this powder on and around the underwire of their bra is an effective way to do this as well.

• Dry Completely After Sweating

If at any point during the day you find that you’ve been sweating it is important to take a moment to dry off completely under your breasts. Whether its after exercising or just a hot day, taking a moment to wipe the area down with a dry towel can help prevent breast yeast infections. If possible, shower and then dry the area to help wash away any fungal build up. When a shower is not an option, a quick wipe down will help considerably.