Can thrush cause breastfeeding problems?

Understanding Thrush and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
Thrush, a common yeast infection caused by the fungus *Candida albicans*, can significantly affect breastfeeding mothers and their infants. This condition is not only uncomfortable but can also lead to various complications in the breastfeeding process.
Symptoms and Transmission
For breastfeeding mothers, thrush can manifest as severe pain in the nipples and breasts, often described as a burning sensation. This pain can be intense enough to discourage mothers from continuing to breastfeed, potentially leading to early weaning if not addressed properly. The infection is highly contagious and can easily be transmitted between mother and baby. If a baby has oral thrush, it can pass the infection back to the mother during breastfeeding, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break .
Diagnosis Challenges
Diagnosing thrush in breastfeeding mothers can be tricky. Many symptoms associated with nipple pain may stem from other issues, such as improper latching or other forms of breast infection. Experts recommend consulting with a skilled breastfeeding supporter to rule out these alternatives before concluding that thrush is the cause of the pain. This careful approach is crucial, as misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary distress and treatment.
Breastfeeding with Thrush
Despite the discomfort, mothers can continue to breastfeed while undergoing treatment for thrush. It is essential, however, to manage the infection effectively to minimize pain and prevent further complications. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications for both the mother and the baby, which can help clear the infection and alleviate symptoms.
Preventive Measures
To prevent thrush, mothers are advised to maintain good hygiene practices, such as changing nursing pads frequently and avoiding moisture-trapping materials. Additionally, ensuring that the baby is latching correctly can help reduce the risk of developing thrush and other breastfeeding-related issues.
In conclusion, while thrush can indeed cause significant breastfeeding problems, understanding its symptoms, ensuring proper diagnosis, and following effective treatment protocols can help mothers navigate this challenging condition. With the right support and care, many mothers can continue to breastfeed successfully, even in the face of a thrush infection.

What does breastfeeding thrush look like?

Signs of thrush in the nursing parent may include:
Flaking and/or shiny skin on the nipple or areola. Nipple skin and areola may be red on lighter skin and darker brown, purple or grey on darker skin. This can be more difficult to see on darker skin tones. White patches/tiny blisters on the nipple or areola.

What can be mistaken for thrush?

5 vaginal infections that aren’t thrush (but look or feel like it)

• Herpes. Herpes, a common and extremely contagious STI, causes painful sores on the genitals.
• Trichomoniasis.
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
• A sensitivity or allergic reaction.
• Gonorrhoea.
• Whatever your suspicions, get your symptoms checked out.

How can you tell the difference between thrush and mastitis?

Thrush will generally always be bilateral, while subclinical mastitis will usually be unilateral. The breast pain associated with thrush happens after or between breastfeeds. Breast pain caused by subclinical mastitis is usually most intense when a mother has a milk ejection reflex (MER) at the beginning of a feed.

How to tell the difference between thrush and milk tongue?

Milk residue usually fades away after a feed, whereas oral thrush does not disappear, even on wiping the tongue with a damp cloth. Oral thrush is easy to treat and may start to clear within a few days. A doctor will usually prescribe antifungal gel for the newborn and also for the person breastfeeding them.

Can thrush make you feel sick and tired?

Persistent thrush can also lead to additional side effects, such as fatigue, stomach problems and oral thrush [9]. Typically, those with other conditions (e.g. diabetes, pancreatic cancer, etc.) or immunocompromised are likely to suffer from these additional complications.

Does thrush make babies gassy?

Your baby may
➢ have white patches on the tongue or inside the cheeks or lips ➢ have a diaper rash which is quite red and may peel ➢ repeatedly pull off the breast, make a clicking sound when nursing, or refuse the breast ➢ become gassy or fussy Important: You may not see any signs of the infection.

Can thrush cause a bad latch?

Perhaps your baby is a few months old and you suddenly are experiencing an uncomfortable latch. The internet, other parents, or your healthcare provider may suggest thrush as a diagnosis.

Can thrush affect breast milk supply?

Thrush may reduce your milk supply. It may also be harder to breastfeed while you and your baby are experiencing symptoms. However, you can continue to breastfeed during treatment. Continuing to breastfeed can help maintain your milk supply.

How to tell the difference between mastitis and thrush?

Thrush will generally always be bilateral, while subclinical mastitis will usually be unilateral. The breast pain associated with thrush happens after or between breastfeeds. Breast pain caused by subclinical mastitis is usually most intense when a mother has a milk ejection reflex (MER) at the beginning of a feed.

Can thrush make a baby fussy?

Oral thrush occurs when a yeast infection is present inside the mouth, and is a common cause of fussy infants. Thrush occurs when a buildup of candida fungus builds up in and around the mouth which can lead to issues while feeding and interfere with other daily routines. Luckily, thrush can be treated by a doctor.