Not urgent - Not Severe Medical Question - 28wks and my breasts are itchy and smell

Hi,

This seems like a bit of a stupid question but I am pregnant with my 2nd (now 28wks) and I am experiencing a very strange (and embarrassing) problem.

I know this sounds stupid, I noticed a strange almost Milk or off ham like odour coming from my cleavage last week, I didn’t think anything of it (as I shower twice a day and change my bra after each shower) and just put it down to a hot day and lots of sweating.

A week later and the smell is still there (not as strong which I put down to my use of baby powder trying to keep the area dry) but I can still smell it. I have also tried washing with disinfectant body wash.

I goggled it and apparently this is quiet common even when not lactating, but there doesn’t seem to be any advice (that sounds safe whilst pregnant) out there. My husband hasn’t noticed it but whilst pregnant my sense of smell is heightened so I put it down to the smell being so close to my nose.

After a week of washing, changing regularly and a wash basket full of Bras I have now developed a red rash between my breasts which is tender to touch and I have applied Benpanthen ointment (I have a fairly large chest) but it appears the smell no longer appears to be apparent beneath them (perhaps the baby powder).

Also, I am very thorough with my washing, I use Bi-Carb soda and lavender oil to remove smell from clothing and I have used hot water on my Bras thinking maybe the smell is coming from them, but its not.

Thought I would try this forum before going to the GP, I suspect it’s a thrush like infection but wanted to see if anyone else had experienced this.

Thanks heaps.

hmmm sounds like it could be a yeast (thrush) infection. maybe try one of the nappy rash creams that you would use on a bub with thrush in the nappy area?

I tend to suffer from this. Kenacomb is a good fix, but you need a prescription for it. Otherwise from the chemist you can get an antifungal with an anti-inflammatory cream (Hyrdrozole??). If you don't mind flashing your cleavage then a pharmacist can advise.

Good luck!

Hi There,
Thought I would update this one.
Went to chemist, explained my sito and they suggested applying 'Clonea' which is a Clotrimazole Antifungal Cream.
Worked wonders - smell went after my first application I apply baby powder first to dry the area thoroughly, apply 3 times a day for 2 weeks (even after symptoms have dissapeared).
Perfect outcome, no more itch or smell.
Jaans

Yay!! That's good news!!