How do you get rid of thrush while breastfeeding?

Understanding Thrush During Breastfeeding
Thrush, a common yeast infection caused by the Candida fungus, can be particularly troublesome for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. This condition can lead to painful symptoms for both parties, making it essential to address it promptly and effectively.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
For mothers, thrush may manifest as nipple pain, itching, or a burning sensation during or after breastfeeding. In some cases, the skin around the nipple may appear shiny or red, and there might be cracks or fissures present. For infants, thrush typically appears as white patches in the mouth, which can be mistaken for milk residue. If these patches cannot be wiped away easily, it is likely thrush.
It’s important to note that while thrush is often diagnosed based on symptoms, it can be misdiagnosed. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms, so consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options
If thrush is confirmed, both the mother and the baby may need treatment to prevent the infection from spreading back and forth. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Antifungal Medications: Doctors typically prescribe antifungal creams or oral medications for both the mother and the baby. Common treatments include clotrimazole or nystatin for infants, and topical treatments like miconazole for mothers.
2. Continue Breastfeeding: Contrary to some beliefs, it is generally safe to continue breastfeeding while undergoing treatment for thrush. In fact, breastfeeding can help clear the infection, as the baby’s saliva can aid in the healing process.
3. Maintain Hygiene: Keeping the affected areas clean and dry is vital. Mothers should wash their hands frequently and ensure that any breast pumps or feeding equipment are sterilized properly to prevent reinfection.
4. Dietary Adjustments: Some mothers find that reducing sugar intake can help manage thrush, as yeast thrives on sugar. Incorporating probiotics into the diet may also support the body’s natural flora and combat yeast overgrowth.
5. Consult a Lactation Specialist: If pain persists, seeking help from a lactation consultant can provide additional support. They can offer guidance on proper breastfeeding techniques that may alleviate discomfort and help rule out other potential causes of nipple pain.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing thrush is just as important as treating it. Here are some proactive measures:
– Breast Care: After breastfeeding, mothers should allow their nipples to air dry and avoid using harsh soaps or lotions that can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast on the skin.

– Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothing can help keep the area dry and reduce moisture buildup, which is conducive to yeast growth.
– Monitor Baby’s Oral Health: Regularly check for signs of thrush in the baby’s mouth, especially if the mother experiences symptoms. Early detection can lead to quicker treatment.
Conclusion
Thrush can be a painful and frustrating experience for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. However, with proper treatment and preventive measures, it is possible to manage and eliminate this infection effectively. Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to individual circumstances.

Can thrush dry up milk supply?

Unfortunately, baby’s mouth and mom’s nipples are perfect places for this type of yeast infection to develop. Because thrush can cause pain both for baby and mom, it can interfere with both baby’s ability to feed as well as the mother’s ability to produce breastmilk.

How do you get rid of thrush fast while breastfeeding?

Breast and nipple thrush is treated with antifungal medicine and antifungal nipple gel/creams. Treat any other site of fungal infection in the whole family, i.e. vagina, nappy rash, feet. Keep your nipples dry by frequently changing breast pads as thrush grows well in a moist and warm environment.

How can I treat my baby’s thrush at home?

Diluted baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) may also combat the symptoms of thrush. Dissolve a half teaspoon of baking soda in 1 cup of warm water, and apply to your child’s thrush with a cotton swab. You can also apply the paste on your nipples before breastfeeding (just wipe off before your baby latches).

Will thrush go away on its own?

If thrush isn’t treated it eventually goes away on its own. There’s no need for your partner(s) to have treatment unless they have signs and symptoms of thrush.

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.

What will happen if thrush is left untreated?

In some cases, the symptoms of oral thrush can make eating and drinking difficult. If left untreated, the symptoms will often persist and your mouth will continue to feel uncomfortable. In severe cases that are left untreated, there is also a risk of the infection spreading further into your body, which can be serious.

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.

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.

What is the fastest way to treat thrush on nipples?

Medications for the nursing parent:
The most effective treatment for topical thrush is Miconazole (Daktarin) cream (2%), which should be applied to the nipple in small amounts after every feed. In mild cases, expect improvement within a couple of days. In more severe cases, it may take 3 to 5 days or longer.

Does breastfeeding thrush go away on its own?

Thrush is a yeast infection that can lead to very damaged, cracked, and painful nipples, a nursing strike, or early weaning and it needs treatment to clear up. While you can take care of some breastfeeding issues on your own, this isn’t one of them.