O91.0: Infection of nipple associated with childbirth

Infection of the nipple associated with childbirth, is a medical condition that occurs when a mother's nipple becomes infected during or shortly after the childbirth process. This condition primarily develops as a result of bacteria entering through the skin, often through a cracked or sore nipple, especially during the early days of breastfeeding. The infection can result in a number of symptoms that can cause discomfort or pain for the mother. These symptoms typically include redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness in the nipple area, possibly along with fever. If left untreated, the infection can progress, potentially leading to more serious conditions like mastitis, which is an infection of the breast tissue resulting in breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness, and might also cause flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills. The infection not only affects the mother's general health, but it can also interfere with the mother's ability to continue breastfeeding.