Cracked nipple associated with the puerperium

This code describes a painful fissure or break in the skin of the nipple that occurs during the postpartum period. It is often caused by breastfeeding challenges, such as improper latch, and can lead to discomfort, infection, and premature cessation of breastfeeding.

Use this code for a patient presenting with a cracked nipple specifically during the puerperium (the period following childbirth). Documentation should clearly indicate the presence of a cracked nipple and its association with the postpartum state, often within the first six weeks after delivery.

• Ensure documentation specifies "cracked" nipple, not just soreness or tenderness.
• Verify the condition occurs during the puerperium; other nipple conditions outside this period would use different codes.
• Consider sequencing this code after a code for the primary reason for the encounter if the cracked nipple is a secondary issue.