What is Thrush in Breastfeeding?

Thrush Causing Breastfeeding Problems

Thrush is a type of yeast infection that may sometimes occur in breastfed babies and on the nipples of breastfeeding women.

Definition of Thrush

Thrush is a type of yeast infection. Thrush may sometimes occur in breastfed babies and on the nipples of breastfeeding women. Thrush may cause sore, red nipples that are painful to touch. It is not uncommon for a mother to develop thrush from breastfeeding her baby, but it is not a big deal. Some mothers have more than others. The bigger concern is that thrush can affect the baby's oral health.

The thrush in breastfeeding is not a big deal for the mother. It's just her breast milk! Many babies are born with it.

Treatment for Thrush

What is thrush? Thrush is a type of infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans. This is a common type of yeast. In most people it lives in small amounts in their mouth, intestines and genital areas without causing any problems. The best way to get rid of thrush is to firstly, by washing the breast with hot water, then, use a disinfectant to clean the nipple. If your nipple is cracked, apply a cotton ball soaked in warm milk with a dab of coconut oil or Shea butter. Remember: Thrush is usually temporary, it will disappear with the baby's first teeth and when the milk comes in. You'll get rid of it with a good treatment.

Thrush can also be treated by changing a baby's or a mother's diet. (From: BabyCenter)

Side Effects of Treatments for Thrush

Systemic antibiotics often prescribed for thrush (such as Nystatin, Gentian Violet, Amphotericin B) can have side effects that are toxic to breastfeeding babies. Antibiotic use during breastfeeding can cause breastfeeding babies to have diarrhea, increased risk of vomiting, and a weakened immune system. (From: BabyCenter) There are also some antibiotics that can be used on nipple rash, but these can cause more pain than thrush and should be avoided.

Prevention of Thrush

The main prevention of thrush is maintaining a clean environment and breastfeeding babies and their mothers. Breastfeeding women should wash their hands after changing diapers. The adult diaper area should be cleaned daily with soap and water. This can also be done in the shower. The thrush in breastfeeding can be prevented by breastfeeding exclusively. Thrush is not contagious to other babies