What causes breastfeeding thrush?

Understanding Breastfeeding Thrush: Causes and Implications
Breastfeeding thrush, a common yet painful condition, is primarily caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a type of fungus that naturally resides in the human body, particularly in the digestive tract and on the skin. Under normal circumstances, this organism coexists without causing any issues. However, certain factors can lead to its uncontrolled proliferation, resulting in thrush, which manifests as a yeast infection in the breasts or nipples of breastfeeding women.
The Environment for Thrush Growth
Thrush thrives in warm, moist environments, making the breast area particularly susceptible, especially during breastfeeding when moisture levels can increase. This infection can affect both the mother and the baby, with symptoms often appearing in the baby’s mouth or diaper area, as well as on the mother’s nipples. The interconnectedness of breastfeeding means that if one party develops thrush, the other is at risk, necessitating careful hygiene practices to prevent the spread of the infection.
Symptoms and Impact on Breastfeeding
The symptoms of thrush can be quite distressing. Mothers may experience severe nipple pain, which does not improve with adjustments in breastfeeding technique. This pain can lead to cracked and damaged nipples, making the act of breastfeeding not only uncomfortable but potentially leading to a nursing strike or early weaning. For the baby, thrush can present as white patches in the mouth, which may cause discomfort during feeding.
Treatment and Management
Fortunately, thrush is treatable. Mothers can continue to breastfeed while undergoing treatment, which typically involves antifungal medications for both the mother and the baby to effectively clear the infection. Maintaining good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and sterilizing breastfeeding equipment, is crucial in managing and preventing the recurrence of thrush.
In summary, breastfeeding thrush is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, thriving in warm, moist conditions. It can significantly impact the breastfeeding experience, but with proper treatment and hygiene practices, mothers can manage the condition effectively while continuing to nourish their babies.

How common is thrush in breastfed babies?

Because it’s relatively common for new birthing parents and newborn babies to need antibiotics, thrush is also common. Anything else that depresses the immune system—diabetes, chemotherapy, even a common cold—can result in an overgrowth of yeast.

How to tell the difference between thrush and milk tongue?

Milk residue usually fades away after a feed, whereas oral thrush does not disappear, even on wiping the tongue with a damp cloth. Oral thrush is easy to treat and may start to clear within a few days. A doctor will usually prescribe antifungal gel for the newborn and also for the person breastfeeding them.

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.

How do you prevent thrush when breastfeeding?

How To Help Prevent The Spread Of Thrush

• Good, regular hand washing, especially after the toilet!
• Keep nipples dry and avoid breast pads if possible, otherwise, change them regularly
• Use disposable for once-off use only or change reusable every feed and wash in high temperature and wear clean
• Breathable cotton bras

How is thrush triggered?

What causes thrush. Thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be triggered by sex or, less often, passed on during sex. Thrush is caused by a fungus called candida that is normally harmless. Thrush tends to grow in warm, moist conditions and develops if the balance of bacteria changes.

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 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 triggers thrush?

What causes thrush. Thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can be triggered by sex or, less often, passed on during sex. Thrush is caused by a fungus called candida that is normally harmless. Thrush tends to grow in warm, moist conditions and develops if the balance of bacteria changes.

What is the leading cause of thrush?

It is caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast. Antibiotics and immune system problems can raise your risk of thrush. It is uncommon in people without underlying conditions. Thrush might cause a cottony feeling in your mouth or a loss of taste.

How did I get breast thrush?

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.