Raynaud's phenomenon of the nipple

Last reviewed 01/2018

  • Raynaud’s syndrome of the nipples causes vasospasm of the nipple which leads to severe, throbbing, burning pain (1)
    • this condition is characterised by blanching of the nipples, followed by cyanosis and/or erythema after exposure to cold temperatures
  • the pain and throbbing of the nipples associated with Raynaud's phenomenon often mimics yeast or fungal infections. Breastfeeding mothers with Raynaud's of the nipples are often treated inappropriately for organisms such as Candida Albicans with topical or systemic antifungal agents (2)

Reference:

  1. Weiner S. Diagnosis and management of Candida of the nipple and breast. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2006 Mar-Apr;51(2):125-8.
  2. Morino C, Winn SM. Raynaud's phenomenon of the nipples: an elusive diagnosis. J Hum Lact. 2007 May;23(2):191-3.