How do you treat breast thrush at home?

Understanding Breast Thrush
Breast thrush, also known as nipple thrush, is a common condition that can affect breastfeeding mothers. It is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, leading to symptoms such as intense nipple pain, itching, and a burning sensation. While it can be distressing, there are effective home treatment options available to manage and alleviate the symptoms.
Home Treatment Strategies
1. Maintain Good Hygiene:
Keeping the affected area clean and dry is crucial. After breastfeeding, gently wash your nipples with warm water and mild soap, then pat them dry. Avoid using harsh soaps or lotions that can irritate the skin further.
2. Use Antifungal Creams:
Over-the-counter antifungal creams, such as clotrimazole or miconazole, can be applied to the affected area. These creams help to reduce the fungal overgrowth and alleviate symptoms. It’s important to apply the cream after breastfeeding to minimize any potential transfer to the baby.
3. Probiotics:
Incorporating probiotics into your diet can help restore the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in your body. Foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, can be beneficial. Probiotic supplements may also be considered, but it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
4. Dietary Adjustments:
Reducing sugar intake can help limit the growth of Candida. A diet low in refined sugars and carbohydrates may support the body’s ability to combat the infection. Focus on whole foods, including vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
5. Breastfeeding Techniques:
Continue breastfeeding, as it can help clear the infection. However, ensure that your baby is latching correctly to avoid additional nipple trauma. If pain persists, consider consulting a lactation consultant for guidance on proper techniques.
6. Natural Remedies:
Some mothers find relief using natural remedies such as coconut oil, which has antifungal properties. Applying a thin layer of coconut oil to the nipples can soothe irritation and help combat the infection.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many cases of breast thrush can be managed at home, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain worsens, does not improve with home treatments, or if you notice any unusual symptoms in your baby, such as oral thrush (white patches in the mouth), it is crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and may prescribe stronger antifungal medications if necessary.
Conclusion
Breast thrush can be a challenging condition for breastfeeding mothers, but with proper care and home treatment strategies, it is manageable. Maintaining good hygiene, using antifungal treatments, and making dietary adjustments can significantly alleviate symptoms. Always remember to consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen, ensuring both mother and baby remain healthy and comfortable during the breastfeeding journey.

What ointment is good for breast thrush?

What to do: Mother and baby should be treated at the same time: • Apply an antifungal cream or gel (not ointment) such as Miconazole (Monistat) or Clotrimazole (Canestan) to your nipples. Put a small amount of cream (about the size of a pea) on nipples and areolae before each feeding.

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.

How do you flush thrush out?

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.

What does thrush on breast feel like?

Nipple thrush pain is often described as burning, itching, or stinging and may be mild to severe. The pain is usually ongoing and doesn’t go away with improved positioning and attachment of your baby to the breast. Your nipples may be tender to touch and even light clothing can cause pain. Breast thrush pain can vary.

What does thrush on breast look like?

Signs of nipple and breast thrush
your nipples may appear bright pink; the areola may be reddened, dry or flaky. Rarely a fine white rash may be seen. nipple damage (e.g. a crack) that is slow to heal. signs of thrush may be present in your baby’s mouth or on your baby’s bottom, or both.

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 thrush to go away in breasts?

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.

What is commonly misdiagnosed as thrush?

Several conditions can mimic oral thrush. These include: frictional keratosis: a persistent, usually isolated, low-grade irritation of the oral mucosa. hairy leukoplakia of the tongue: commonly seen in HIV patients.

Can breast thrush heal 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.

How to treat thrush in the breast naturally?

However, you can try this home remedy in the meantime. Rince your nipples with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vinegar in 1 cup water (250 ml), every hour for a 24-hour period. Oil of oregano and pure coconut oil are other treatments that may be helpful.