Thrush is a fungus that can cause symptoms in both mum and baby. It thrives in dark moist environments and can affect nipples and milk ducts.
Mother's Symptoms
- Intense nipple or breast pain (not linked to a poor latch or positioning)
- Itchy or burning nipple
- Pink, red, shiny, flaky or rashy patches around the nipple area
- Cracked nipples
- Shooting pains during or after feeding
- Vaginal yeast infection
- Recent use of antibiotics may also be an indicator.
Symptoms in Babies
- Nappy rash
- White spots or patches in baby's mouth that do not wipe away
- Fussiness at the breast, pulling away, clicking noises, or breast refusal due to a sore mouth
If a mother thinks she or baby may have Thrush a GP appointment should be made asap. Both mum and baby need to be treated simultaneously even if one is not displaying any symptoms. Once treatment has begun Thrush normally begins to clear within 48 hours and goes completely within a week. However the full course of medication must always be taken to prevent it reoccuring. Breastfeeding can continue as normal throughout treatment.
Helping Yourself
As well as seeking medical treatment the following may be helpful:
- Rinse and air dry nipples frequently
- Change breastpads frequently
- Wash bras/cloth breastpads frequently at a high temperature
- Sterilise any teats or dummies by boiling for 20 minutes each day and throw them away once treatment is complete
- If expressing, boil all parts of the pump which come into contact with the milk. Expressed milk can be used straight away but should NOT be frozen for later use because freezing does not kill the Thrush.
- Use separate towels for mum and baby to prevent passing it on to other family members
- If you can wash toys which baby has had in their mouth
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