How common is thrush in breastfed babies?

Understanding Thrush in Breastfed Babies
Thrush, a common yeast infection caused by the Candida fungus, is a significant concern for many breastfeeding mothers and their infants. This condition can manifest in various ways, affecting both the baby and the breastfeeding parent.
Prevalence Among Infants
Research indicates that thrush is relatively common among breastfed babies, with estimates suggesting that it affects approximately one in twenty infants. This prevalence highlights the importance of awareness and understanding of the condition among new parents. Thrush can occur when the baby’s mouth becomes infected with Candida, leading to symptoms such as white patches on the tongue and inside the cheeks, which can be painful and may interfere with feeding.
Transmission and Symptoms
Thrush is highly contagious and can easily be transmitted between the breastfeeding mother and her baby. If a baby develops thrush, it is not uncommon for the mother to experience symptoms as well, such as breast and nipple pain . This reciprocal nature of the infection underscores the need for both parties to be vigilant about symptoms and treatment.
Impact on Breastfeeding
While thrush can be painful for both the mother and the baby, it is important to note that breastfeeding can continue during treatment. Mothers are encouraged to breastfeed or pump as much as they can tolerate, as thrush can potentially affect milk supply. However, the experience can be frustrating and uncomfortable, making proper management essential.
Prevention and Management
To prevent the spread of thrush, maintaining good hygiene is crucial. This includes washing hands frequently, especially before and after touching the breast or the baby’s mouth. If thrush is suspected, both the mother and baby should be evaluated and treated simultaneously to prevent reinfection.
In summary, thrush is a common issue for breastfed infants, affecting about 5% of babies. Awareness of the symptoms, transmission, and management strategies is vital for parents navigating this challenging condition. By understanding thrush and its implications, families can better cope with its effects and continue their breastfeeding journey.

How to tell if it’s thrush or milk tongue?

After washing and drying your hands, dampen a clean piece of gauze with lukewarm water. Wrap it around your finger and gently wipe your child’s tongue. If the residue comes off easily, your child likely has milk tongue and not thrush.

Is it normal for breastfed babies to get thrush?

Breastfed babies can also develop thrush in their mouths. Thrush infections sometimes happen when your nipples become cracked or damaged. This means the candida fungus that causes thrush can get into your nipple or breast. Thrush infections can also happen after you or your baby has had a course of antibiotics.

Can you save pumped milk with thrush?

While you and baby are being treated for yeast, your refrigerated, fresh, or milk frozen during thrush treatment can be used safely for baby.

What can be mistaken for breast thrush?

Sometimes, nipple thrush pain is quite similar to other health issues – some of the most popular issues that get mistaken as a yeast infection are:

• Vasospasm/Raynaud’s Phenomenon.
• Micro-fissures due to suboptimal attachment.
• Tongue tie in baby.
• Nipple eczema.
• Bacterial infection (staphylococcus aureus possibly).

How can you tell if your baby has thrush?

How Will I Know if My Baby Has Thrush?

• White or yellow patches on the tongue, lips, gums, inner cheeks and roof of the mouth.
• Discomfort when swallowing or feeding (indicated by decreased sucking and less milk intake)
• Severe diaper rash with redness and sensitivity.

How to clean bottles when baby has thrush?

This must be continued at least 4 days after the thrush is cleared avoid a reoccurrence. Sterilize bottles, nipple, pacifiers and anything baby puts in his/her mouth. Boil them for 20 minutes each day to make sure and kill the yeast that could be on them.

What can be mistaken for thrush in babies mouth?

Other less serious conditions that mimic oral thrush are geographic tongue, canker sores, coated tongue, and “milk tongue.”

What percentage of babies get thrush?

Thrush is caused by the Candida yeast and occurs in 5 percent of healthy newborns. Thrush is generally a harmless superficial yeast infection, occurring mainly in the first two months of an infant’s life. Occasionally, it may occur later if there is antibiotic use or excessive mouth friction with a nipple or pacifier.

How do I make sure my baby doesn’t get thrush?

Prevention

1. If you bottle feed your baby, clean and sterilize all equipment, including nipples.
2. Clean and sterilize pacifiers and other toys that go in your baby’s mouth.
3. Change diapers often to help prevent yeast from causing diaper rash.
4. Be sure to treat your nipples if you have a yeast infection.

Do I have to throw out breast milk if I have thrush?

While you and baby are being treated for yeast, your refrigerated, fresh, or milk frozen during thrush treatment can be used safely for baby.