An Aptaclub initiative to support & encourage breastfeeding in Ireland

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Thrush



Thrush (candida albicans) is a yeast infection that can affect your breasts if you are nursing. Nobody knows why some women get it and others don’t, but it might occur if you, or your baby, are taking antibiotics and if the nipple has been damaged. If you’re taking oral contraceptives or steroids (for asthma) you are also at risk.

Symptoms and signs of thrush in the mother

If you suffer persistent nipple pain in the early weeks of nursing or if the pain occurs after several weeks or even months of breastfeeding, this can be caused by thrush. Other signs and symptoms include:
  • itchy or burning nipples, which look flaky or have a rash
  • cracked nipples
  • shooting pain in the breast while you feed or afterwards. Also deep breast pain that is not linked to poor latching or positioning.

Symptoms and signs of thrush in your baby

Your baby might not show any symptom of infection. Signs of thrush are:
  • white patches in your baby’s mouth or on the tongue; white film on your baby’s lips or tongue
  • pulling off your breast while feeding - your baby’s mouth is sore. This could also be a sign of poor attachment
  • a windy, fretful baby. This is also a sign of poor attachment.

Treatment for thrush

Thrush can be difficult to treat as it spreads easily. See your doctor as soon as possible if you suspect thrush. Self-help measures can alleviate the condition, but cannot replace medication. These include:
  • rinsing your nipples with a vinegary solution (1 tablespoon vinegar to 1 cup of water) and letting them air dry after feeding
  • washing your hands often, especially before and after changing a nappy
  • washing all bras, pads, nightgowns and anything that comes in contact with your nipples in hot water using bleach whenever possible
  • reducing yeast and sugar in your diet.

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An Aptaclub initiative to support & encourage breastfeeding in Ireland

Ireland has one of the lowest breastfeeding rates in Europe, research has shown that one of the reasons cited by mothers for this is lack of support. That is why we created a website to support breastfeeding and help mums with their nursing for as long as they wish. For over 50 years we have been committed to learning from the natural benefits of breast milk with an ongoing programme of research that now involves over 250 scientists, paediatricians and nutritionists. Although our nutrition products include infant products, we have always stressed, both in our literature and advertising, that breast milk is the perfect food for babies. It is because of this we strongly believe that www.mumslikeus.ie, a comprehensive website to support other national breastfeeding initiatives means we can work together to provide the support to mothers during this challenging and exciting time in order to improve and sustain breastfeeding rates in Ireland the long term. This is in line with the Aptaclub mission to make a difference to the long term health of babies in Ireland..

How Mumslikeus can help parents

Breastfeeding offers amazing, life-long, health benefits for mums and babies, is kind to the environment and, last but not least, is natural, free and convenient.

It is easy to feel bombarded by conflicting advice and feel uncertain about your baby’s wellbeing. We have created this online community to assist you at every stage of your breastfeeding journey through expert information, peer support and interactive tools. If requested, we can send you emails touching on what to expect at particular stages of your journey so you are prepared and fully supported all the way.

Dads and partners too can feel isolated and it is often hard to see a partner struggle and feel unable to offer any support. For this reason we have included a section for dads and partners who want to find out all about breastfeeding and how to help their partner throughout the journey.

Get in touch to help Mumslikeus support you

If you feel there is anything missing or you’d like us to address a specific concern, please get in touch and let us know how we can better support and encourage your own successful and rewarding breastfeeding experience. Email ask@mumslikeus.ie or call our dedicated careline between 8.30 and 5.30pm Monday to Friday – Freephone 1800 283054.

An Aptaclub initiative to support & encourage breastfeeding in Ireland