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What antifungal cream is good for thrush while breastfeeding?

Understanding Thrush During Breastfeeding
Thrush, a common fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast, can be particularly troublesome for breastfeeding mothers. It often manifests as nipple pain and can affect both the mother and the baby, leading to discomfort during nursing. Recognizing and treating thrush promptly is essential for maintaining a comfortable breastfeeding experience.
Recommended Antifungal Creams
For mothers experiencing thrush while breastfeeding, several antifungal creams are considered effective. Miconazole cream, commonly known by brand names such as Lotrimin and Cruex, is frequently recommended for topical application on the affected areas. This medication works by inhibiting the growth of the yeast, providing relief from symptoms.
Another option is nystatin, which is also effective against Candida infections. While it is often used for oral thrush in infants, it can be prescribed for mothers as well. These treatments are generally safe to use while breastfeeding, allowing mothers to continue nursing without interruption.
Treatment Considerations
When dealing with thrush, it is crucial for mothers to consult with a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. A skilled breastfeeding supporter can help rule out other causes of nipple pain, ensuring that thrush is correctly identified and treated.
In addition to topical treatments, maintaining good hygiene practices is vital. Mothers should ensure that their nipples are kept dry and clean, as moisture can promote yeast growth. After breastfeeding, allowing the nipples to air dry can be beneficial.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are a breastfeeding mother dealing with thrush, miconazole cream and nystatin are effective antifungal options that can help alleviate symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options to ensure both you and your baby remain healthy and comfortable during this challenging time.

What cream is good for thrush while breastfeeding?

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.

Can you use Lotrimin for thrush on breast?

Use an anti-yeast cream (such as Lotrimin) on the nipple area. No prescription is needed. Put it on 4 times per day after feedings. Wash the cream off the nipples before each nursing.

What antifungal cream is best for thrush?

Clotrimazole works by killing the yeast that causes the fungal infection. It usually treats thrush within 7 days but it’s best to treat the infection for at least 2 weeks to stop it coming back. The most common side effect is an itching or burning feeling in the area being treated.

What is the best antifungal cream for yeast infections 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 I take for thrush while breastfeeding?

Thrush in breastfeeding women is usually treated with a cream that you sparingly spread on and around your nipples after feeds. You’ll need to wash your hands thoroughly after treating yourself. Some women may need to take antifungal tablets to clear the infection.

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).

What is the best antifungal for thrush in the breast?

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.

What antifungal cream is safe while breastfeeding?

Topical antifungal cream and pessaries containing clotrimazole, miconazole and nystatin are safe to use while breastfeeding. A single dose of oral fluconazole is considered safe when oral treatment is preferred.

How do you treat fungal infections 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.

Can I store breastmilk while I have thrush?

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

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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