How do you get rid of thrush fast while breastfeeding?

Understanding Thrush During Breastfeeding
Thrush, a common yeast infection caused by the overgrowth of *Candida albicans*, can be particularly troublesome for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. This condition is not only uncomfortable but also highly contagious, meaning it can easily spread between mother and baby. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding how to treat thrush effectively is crucial for maintaining a healthy breastfeeding relationship.
Symptoms of Thrush
For mothers, thrush often manifests as sharp, burning pain in the nipples during and after breastfeeding, along with itching or a rash on the nipples. In infants, thrush typically appears as white patches in the mouth, which can be mistaken for milk residue. If left untreated, thrush can lead to significant discomfort for both mother and child, potentially disrupting feeding routines.
Fast Treatment Options
To address thrush quickly while breastfeeding, several strategies can be employed:
1. Antifungal Medications: Over-the-counter antifungal creams or prescription medications are often the first line of defense. For mothers, topical treatments like clotrimazole or miconazole can be applied directly to the affected area. Oral antifungal medications may be necessary if the infection is severe or persistent.
2. Maintain Hygiene: Keeping the affected areas clean and dry is essential. After breastfeeding, mothers should air out their nipples and avoid wearing tight-fitting bras. It’s also advisable to wash any breast pump parts and bottles thoroughly to prevent reinfection.
3. Treat the Baby: If the baby shows signs of thrush, such as white patches in the mouth, a pediatrician may prescribe an antifungal treatment like nystatin. Treating both mother and baby simultaneously is crucial to prevent the cycle of reinfection.
4. Probiotics: Incorporating probiotics into the diet can help restore the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the body. This can be beneficial for both the mother and the baby, potentially reducing the likelihood of thrush reoccurring.
5. Consult a Lactation Expert: If thrush symptoms persist, consulting a lactation consultant can be invaluable. They can help ensure that the baby is latching correctly, which can alleviate some of the nipple pain associated with thrush.
Continuing to Breastfeed
Despite the discomfort, it is generally safe to continue breastfeeding while treating thrush. In fact, breastfeeding can help pass antibodies to the baby, potentially aiding in their recovery. However, if breastfeeding becomes too painful, mothers should consider expressing milk to maintain supply while allowing their nipples to heal.
Prevention Tips
To prevent thrush from recurring, mothers can take several proactive steps:
– Limit Sugar Intake: Reducing sugar in the diet can help minimize the growth of yeast.
– Wear Breathable Fabrics: Opt for cotton bras and avoid synthetic materials that can trap moisture.
– Practice Good Hygiene: Regularly wash hands and ensure that any items that come into contact with the breasts or baby’s mouth are sanitized.
Conclusion
Thrush can be a challenging condition for breastfeeding mothers, but with prompt treatment and preventive measures, it is possible to manage and overcome this infection effectively. By staying informed and seeking support when needed, mothers can continue to enjoy the benefits of breastfeeding while ensuring their health and that of their baby.

Can you treat breastfeeding thrush at home?

Treatment for thrush
If it is a thrush infection, you may be prescribed an antifungal cream or tablets. The cream needs to be applied to your nipples after every feed. If your baby has thrush, your GP will prescribe an antifungal gel or liquid cream to apply to the infected area.

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.

What drink kills thrush?

Preliminary research suggests that lemon juice can help with oral thrush because of its antiseptic and antifungal properties. But don’t apply lemon juice directly to lesions. It can cause burning and irritation. If you want to try lemon juice, mix the juice of half a lemon in a cup of water.

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 long does it take for breastfeeding thrush to go away?

Some women may need to take antifungal tablets to clear the infection. Once you and your baby start treatment, your symptoms should improve within 2 to 3 days. It will take a little longer for the infection to clear completely. If you don’t see any improvement within 5 days, speak to your health visitor or GP.

How do I get rid of thrush asap?

You’ll usually need antifungal medicine to get rid of thrush. This can be a tablet you take, a tablet you insert into your vagina (pessary) or a cream to relieve the irritation. Thrush should clear up within 7 to 14 days of starting treatment. You do not need to treat partners unless they have symptoms.

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 better to spit or swallow Nystatin?

Put the medicine in your mouth. Keep it in your mouth for at least 30 seconds if possible, swilling it around your mouth like a mouthwash before you swallow it. Do not eat or drink anything for 30 minutes after taking it. This stops you washing the medicine out of your mouth too soon.

What is the best cream for fungal infection under the breast?

How to Treat a Yeast Infection Under the Breasts

• Ecoza (econazole)
• Lamisil (terbinafine)
• Lotramim (clotrimazole)
• Monistat-Derm (miconazole)
• Nizoral (ketoconazole)
• Nyata (nystatin)

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.