Thrush (breastfeeding)

Both your breasts may feel painful after feeding. Breastfeeding can sometimes be painful for several reasons, but thrush-related pain is a new, severe pain that lasts for some time after feeding.  It is not usually associated with other symptoms such as fever or vomiting. 

Babies may become unsettled after feeding, and if you look inside their mouth, you may notice white spots or patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, the roof of the mouth, or gums. Unlike milk stains, thrush patches do not go away on wiping.

Your doctor or midwife can order swabs from your nipples and your baby's mouth to confirm if there is thrush.  However, a diagnosis can often be made based on the history and examination without needing swabs. 

Your doctor will provide an antifungal cream to apply to your nipples after feeding. At the same time, the baby will be given antifungal gel or liquid drops that are safe for the baby. Symptoms should start improving within a couple of days, but if you don't notice improvement or have any other concerns, you must speak to your midwife or doctor immediately.

Yes. This is why your doctor will need to treat both you and your baby simultaneously, as the infection can pass easily between a breastfeeding mother and child, as well as anyone else in the household.

Breastfeeding bras need to be washed at high temperatures, breastfeeding pads must be changed often, and good hygiene practices must be followed. This includes washing your hands after diaper changes and handling breastfeeding equipment, as well as properly sterilizing breastfeeding equipment, toys, and pacifiers between each use. Expressed milk should not be frozen for a later date but instead used immediately.