Navigating Nipple Thrush: A Guide for New Mums
Congratulations on the arrival of your beautiful bundle of joy! As a new mum, you're embarking on an incredible journey of nurturing and nourishing your baby through breastfeeding. While breastfeeding offers numerous benefits, it can also present its fair share of challenges, one of which is nipple thrush. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of nipple thrush, discuss its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and offer tips on prevention. We aim to provide you with the knowledge and support you need to continue your breastfeeding journey comfortably and confidently.
What is Nipple Thrush?
Nipple thrush, also known as candida or yeast infection, is a common condition that can affect breastfeeding moms. It's caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans in and around the nipple and areola. This fungus is naturally present in the human body, but when its growth becomes unchecked, it can lead to uncomfortable symptoms for both you and your baby.
Symptoms of Nipple Thrush
Nipple thrush can manifest in various ways, and it's essential to recognise the signs early on to seek appropriate treatment. Here are some common symptoms:
Nipple Pain: One of the most noticeable symptoms is intense, burning pain in your nipples and breast. The pain can be sharp and stabbing or more persistent, making it excruciating to breastfeed.
Itching: You may experience itching and soreness in your nipples and areola, often accompanied by a deep, shooting pain.
Redness: The affected area might appear red and inflamed. In severe cases, the skin can become cracked and have a shiny or glossy appearance.
Shooting Pains: Some mothers report sharp, shooting pains deep within the breast tissue during or after feeds.
Nipple Changes: Your nipples may appear flaky, or there could be a white, curd-like residue on the nipple surface. This residue is often a telltale sign of a yeast infection.
Baby's Symptoms: In some cases, your baby may develop oral thrush, which can cause white patches on the tongue, cheeks, or roof of the mouth. Your baby might be fussy or uncomfortable during feeds, and their diaper area may also show signs of a yeast diaper rash.
Causes of Nipple Thrush
Nipple thrush occurs when there's an imbalance in the natural flora of your body. Several factors can contribute to this imbalance:
Antibiotic Use: If you've been on antibiotics during pregnancy, birth or postpartum, they can disrupt the balance of bacteria and fungi in your body, potentially leading to an overgrowth of Candida.
Moisture and Warmth: Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments, and the nipple and areola can provide the perfect conditions, especially when milk is present.
Damaged Nipple Tissue: Cracked, damaged, or blistered nipples can create an entry point for the Candida fungus, allowing it to thrive in the breast tissue.
High Sugar Diet: A diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can promote the growth of yeast in your body.
Weakened Immune System: A weakened immune system, often due to factors like stress, lack of sleep, or illness, can make it harder for your body to control the growth of Candida.
Treatment for Nipple Thrush
If you suspect you have nipple thrush, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Seek help from your GP and a lactation consultant. Here are some common approaches to treating nipple thrush:
Antifungal Medications: Your healthcare provider may prescribe antifungal creams or ointments for topical application on your nipples and areola. These medications help eliminate the Candida overgrowth.
Oral Medication: In some cases, if the infection is severe or doesn't respond to topical treatment, your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication. It's essential to follow your doctor's instructions and complete the full course of treatment.
Treating Your Baby: If your baby has oral thrush, they may also need treatment to prevent reinfection. Your pediatrician can recommend suitable antifungal treatment for your baby's condition.
Breast Care: It's important to keep your breasts and nipples clean and dry. Air out your nipples as often as possible and change breast pads frequently. Use disposable nursing pads to minimize the risk of reinfection.
Dietary Changes: Reducing your sugar and refined carbohydrate intake can help create an environment less conducive to Candida growth.
Probiotics: Taking probiotics can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your body, which can aid in preventing yeast overgrowth.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate the discomfort caused by nipple thrush.
Preventing Nipple Thrush
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing nipple thrush:
Maintain Good Breastfeeding Hygiene: Ensure your breasts and nipples are clean and dry. Change breast pads frequently and wash them in hot water to prevent reinfection.
Proper Latch and Positioning: Ensure your baby has a good latch during feeds to reduce the risk of nipple damage. If you're unsure about your baby's latch, seek help from a lactation consultant or experienced postpartum doula.
Limit Antibiotic Use: Use antibiotics only when necessary, and if prescribed by a healthcare professional. Discuss the potential impact on your breastfeeding journey.
Dietary Choices: Opt for a balanced diet with reduced sugar intake to maintain a healthy gut flora. If you are still in your early weeks of postpartum focus on warm, cooked and easy to digest meals such as broths, soups and stews.
Manage Stress: Find ways to manage stress and get enough rest. A strong immune system can help prevent fungal overgrowth. For the postpartum period that means: get support. Postpartum is beautiful but very taxing on the new mum’s body. Don’t think you have to manage it alone. Build your 21st-century village of support.
Probiotics: Consider taking probiotics, especially if you've been on antibiotics. These supplements can help maintain the balance of healthy bacteria in your body.
Seek Help Early: If you suspect you have nipple thrush, don't delay seeking treatment. The sooner you address the issue, the quicker you can find relief.
Coping with Nipple Thrush
Dealing with nipple thrush can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Here are some tips to help you cope with this condition:
Get Support: Reach out to a lactation consultant, postpartum doula or a breastfeeding support group for guidance and emotional support. You are not alone, and there are many resources available to help you through this. If you are in Australia you can contact the Australian Breastfeeding Association which has a lot of information on their website, offers support groups and 24-hour helpline 1800 686 268.
Keep Breastfeeding: If not advised otherwise by your health care provider, you can continue breastfeeding. It’s a very good idea to get a lactation consultant involved to help you and your baby through this.
Practice Self-Care: Stress is a cause of breast and nipple thrush. Take time for self-care, including relaxation, meditation, or whatever helps you de-stress. A calm, relaxed mum is better equipped to deal with breastfeeding challenges. I know that this is easier said than done when you are a new mum with a newborn. Oftentimes, the best self-care as a new mum is to ask for help and support. Giving her time for self-care is one of my main focuses when supporting a new mum in her postpartum.
Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider: If your treatment doesn't seem effective, don't hesitate to consult your healthcare provider for adjustments or alternative solutions.
Conclusion
Nipple thrush can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with the right treatment and support, you can overcome it and continue your breastfeeding journey. Remember that you are not alone in facing this challenge. Reach out for support.
Source:
Royal Women's Hospital, Victoria fact sheet on Breast and nipple thrush
