When you prevent thrush while breastfeeding, you're protecting both you and your baby from this common but uncomfortable infection. Thrush is a yeast infection caused by Candida albicans that commonly affects the breasts and your baby's mouth.

Therefore, you need to know some tips to reduce your chances of contracting thrush. Below, we explore some practical preventive measures to help you stay healthy and comfortable during this special time.

What Are the Symptoms of Thrush?

Thrush is caused by Candida albicans, a fungal infection that can affect different parts of the body, but is particularly common in the mouth and genital area. And while you're breastfeeding, both you and your baby can experience symptoms. Here are the symptoms to watch for:

Symptoms in Babies

• White patches in the mouth resemble leftover milk, but these patches don't wipe off easily.

• Redness or irritation in the mouth and on the tongue may make your baby look uncomfortable.

• Fussiness during feedings, which may indicate discomfort.

• Difficulty feeding or unwillingness to suck, which may be due to oral pain.

• Persistent diaper rash, which is usually bright red, with bumps or spots that spread beyond the main rash area.

Symptoms in Moms

• Nipple pain during and after feedings, which can feel stinging, burning, or itching.

• Red or shiny nipples that may appear unusually pink, flaky, or even develop a rash with small blisters.

• Tingling in the breast during or after breastfeeding is different from typical nursing pain.

• Pain deep in the breast when feeding, indicates that the infection may have spread deeper into the breast tissue.

What Causes Thrush in Babies?

Thrush usually lives in small amounts in babies' mouths, intestines, and skin, but in some cases, these bacteria can multiply and become infected. Factors that increase a baby's risk of developing thrush include:

1. Antibiotic Use: If you or your baby is taking antibiotics, be aware that antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria, potentially leading to overgrowth of yeasts such as Candida albicans and causing thrush. Antibiotic residues can also be passed through breast milk during breastfeeding, affecting your baby’s microbial balance.

2. Immature Immune System: Because your baby's immune system is still developing, it is less able to control the microbial population, causing opportunistic pathogens such as Candida to flourish. As your baby grows, their immune system will become stronger and better able to control these microorganisms.

3. Contaminated Feeding Equipment: You should ensure that all nipples, bottle nipples, and breast pump accessories are properly sterilized. For example, parts for manual and electric breast pumps, etc. If these breastfeeding products are not thoroughly cleaned, they may harbor yeast, which can then be transferred to your baby's mouth, leading to the formation of thrush.

4. Transmission During Birth: If you have a vaginal yeast infection during childbirth, you may pass Candida to your baby as he passes through the birth canal. This can cause yeast to colonize in your baby's mouth, which can then lead to thrush. Treating any yeast infections during pregnancy is important to avoid this.

5. Poor Oral Hygiene: You need to keep everything in your baby's mouth clean. This includes things like baby toys and feeding products. Regularly cleaning and adequately drying items like pacifiers and bottle nipples can keep your baby's mouth free of harmful microorganisms.

Can a Baby Get Thrush from Pumped Milk?

If your baby drinks expressed milk, this in itself will not directly cause your baby to contract thrush. Thrush is a common oral infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans that affects infants and small children, but can also affect adults. If you store breast milk in milk storage bags, bottles, or nipples that are not thoroughly sterilized, this may breed bacteria or yeast, which increases the risk of thrush.

Therefore, you need to keep your breast milk pumping equipment and storage containers clean and sterilized. If you have thrush while breastfeeding, you may also pass it to your baby through contact. If you suspect your baby has thrush, you should consult your doctor immediately for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

How to Prevent Thrush in Breastfed Babies？

Preventing thrush in babies while breastfeeding requires taking several proactive steps to keep your baby clean and reduce your risk of yeast infections. Here are some tips to help:

Maintain Good Hygiene

Keeping your hands and nipples clean is crucial for preventing thrush. Therefore, before and after each feeding, make sure to thoroughly wash your hands and clean your nipples with warm water, then gently pat them dry. Avoid using soaps that can cause your skin to crack. Additionally, allowing your nipples to air dry after feeding can help reduce moisture buildup and prevent fungal infections.

Sterilize Feeding Equipment

Regularly sterilize your baby’s bottles, pacifiers, and breast pump accessories. Use boiling water or a sterilizer to ensure these items are thoroughly cleaned, especially after they’ve come into contact with your baby’s mouth. After sterilization, store these items properly to prevent contamination.

Monitor and Manage Antibiotic Use

Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your body, leading to an overgrowth of Candida and increasing the risk of thrush. Therefore, when using antibiotics, be especially vigilant for early signs of thrush, and consider taking probiotics under your doctor’s guidance to help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria.

Early Detection and Treatment

Early detection and treatment are key to preventing the spread and worsening of thrush. If you notice signs of infection in your baby’s mouth or on your own nipples, seek medical help immediately. Your doctor will prescribe antifungal medication to effectively control and treat the infection.

Dietary Considerations

Reducing sugar intake for both you and your baby can help inhibit the growth of Candida and lower the risk of thrush. Maintain a balanced diet and consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals to strengthen your immune system and enhance your ability to resist infections.

Conclusion

Preventing thrush while you're breastfeeding is important to ensure both you and your baby are protected from this uncomfortable infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans. This article outlines several effective prevention strategies you can take. By taking these steps, you can create a healthier, more comfortable breastfeeding environment for both you and your baby.

Related reading: How to Prevent Nipple Pain When Pumping?