What is Thrush?
Thrush is a yeast infection caused by the organism candida albicans. Although candida occurs naturally in the body, it can become troublesome if too much grows. Candida can become overgrown when antibiotics are taken, or when an especially warm, dark, moist, nutritious environment is provided. A breastfeeding mother’s nipples and baby’s mouth can provide just such an environment for overgrowth.
How do I Know if it's Thrush?
Mother's nipple will be slightly pink to very dark pink and may have tiny blisters. The mother will describe sore nipples, often a stinging or burning sensation, especially during and immediately after feeding. Nipples may itch, crack and flake. A culture can be done to confirm the presence of candida.
Baby may not show any signs with early infection, but later signs are red irritated gums and mouth with white patches. Baby may be restless, irritable and nurse frequently. Baby may have diaper rash.
Mother may also be experiencing a vaginal yeast infection.
What Medication Will I Need For Thrush?
Mother and baby will both need to be treated to prevent recurrence. Consult your physician and pediatrician. It is not necessary to stop nursing.
Treatment for the baby is usually a prescription medication called Mycostatin (the generic name is Nystatin). This is given with an eyedropper and then swabbed inside cheeks and gums with a fresh cotton top applicator 3 to 4 times a day. Any diaper rash will also need to be treated (with a topical cream such as Nystatin).
Treatment for the mother may be a nystatin cream or other prescription anti-fungal applied to nipples after each feeding. Lotrimin-AF, (generic clotrimazole), is an antifungal available over-the-counter. Gentian Violet may also be used on the nipples. Any vaginal infection will also need to be treated. It is also helpful to air dry nipples after feedings and expose nipples to mild doses of sunlight.
Thrush is a very persistent organism. Mother and baby will need to be treated for a full two weeks when nystatin and anti-fungal creams are used. Some very persistent cases may require mother to take a prescription by mouth.
How Do I Prevent Thrush From Recurring?
- Wear cotton; bras and bra pads should allow air circulation rather than trap moisture; avoid nylon, plastic or vinyl
- Discard wet bra pads; use disposable cotton pads or change washable pads as soon as they become wet
- Air dry nipples after nursing
- Boil or discard any bottle nipples, pacifiers, teething toys, or breast pump parts in contact with infection after each use; boiling is the only way to destroy the growth
- Wash bras and bra pads in hot water and/or expose them to direct sunlight
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