Still, they can be very uncomfortable.

Here are a few common causes of a rash on the breasts andunder the breasts.

It happens when yeast, other fungi, or bacteria grow in warm, moist skin folds.

Renita White, MD

If you have the rash, try treating it with a barrier cream, like Vaseline or Desitin.

For more severe intertrigo, see your healthcare provider.

They may suggest an antibacterial or antifungal cream.

Cool compresses and avoiding excess heat can help.

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions can cause a breast rash that includeshives.

Infections

Infections includingshinglesandscabiescan cause breast rashes.

Mastitisis an infection that occurs in people who are lactating when a milk duct becomes clogged, then infected.

Symptoms of PUPPP start on the abdomen and can spread, including to the breasts.

Symptoms may come and go but often appear only on one breast.

They include:

If you experience these symptoms, see a healthcare provider right away.

When coupled with a breast rash, these can be signs of serious infection orin rare casescancer.

In very rare cases, a breast rash can be a sign of cancer.

Breast Cancer Now.Intertrigo (rash under the breast).

National Breast Cancer Foundation.What is a breast rash?

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Clinical overview of shingles (herpes zoster).

Harvard Health Publishing.How to identify scabies a contagious and uncomfortable skin condition brought on by mites.

Office on Womens Health.Common breastfeeding challenges.

Kar S, Krishnan A, Shivkumar PV.Pregnancy and skin.J Obstet Gynaecol India.