Thrush, or Candida albicans, is a fungal infection and can be found in your baby’s mouth, nappy area or under the chin. Thrush can also be found on breastfeeding nipples and in the vaginal area. The fungus known as Candida lives on our skin and usually causes no harm, but when conditions are favourable, candida thrives and causes havoc. Favourable conditions include warm, moist environments.
Oral thrush
Candida grows from the base of the tongue forward and can be seen as large white patches on your baby’s tongue, inner cheeks and inner lip area that cannot be wiped away. The white growth often has red patches and not to be mistaken for a milky tongue. Your baby may have difficulty feeding but some are not affected. Oral thrush can re-infect nipples when feeding unless nipples are being treated as well.
Treatment of oral thrush
- Wash hands well
- Wash bottles, teats to prevent re-infection
- Ask at the pharmacy or your doctor for appropriate treatments usually in the form of oral gels or drops
Nappy area thrush
A thrush nappy rash spreads in red patches and often does not go away with the constant application of barrier creams.
Common causes of thrush infections in the nappy area
- Any thrush infection can develop if either you or your baby are taking antibiotics
- Babies left in wet or dirty nappies for long periods
- Non-breathable nappy over pants
- No known reason at all
Treatment of thrush nappy rash
- Clean area with water every nappy change
- Pat or air dry in the sunshine
- Give regular sun kicks without nappy on
- Apply a thin layer of antifungal cream from pharmacy twice a day and a barrier cream over the top and at every nappy change
Related articles
Lactose Intolerance in Babies
Lactose intolerance is a clinical condition (not an allergy), with symptoms being associated with the digestive system, which is still maturing in young infants.
6 mins to read
Nappy Changing Tips
No one is an instant expert at nappy changing - don’t worry there is plenty of opportunity to practice. Your baby may lie still, wiggle, kick and scream or do all three.
12 mins to read
Baby & Newborn Diarrhoea
It is important to know what to expect in a nappy so you can then know when your baby’s poo is abnormal and may need healthcare professional advice.
2 mins to read
Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) & Infant Immune Health
Explore the role of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) in breast milk and how they support infant immunity and promote a healthy gut.
6 mins to read
10 New Parent Tips for Navigating Early Parenthood Together
Becoming a new parent and bringing your newborn home is a daunting experience to navigate. Along with all the joy and love you’re feeling, it’s entirely normal to feel unprepared and overwhelmed.
7 mins to read
My Baby Has A Flattened Head
Your newborn’s skull is thin and flexible making it easy to mould.
3 mins to read
What is Unsolicited Parenting Advice?
Children are our future so it’s not surprising that everyone feels invested in helping parents to better nurture their babies.
3 mins to read
Parent Shaming Online: What Parents Need to Know About Online Shaming
With social media providing a window into our lives for all to see, parent shaming online—or more commonly mum shaming—is something we need to all be aware of.
4 mins to read
Adjusting to Parenthood: The Shock of Becoming a Parent
Feeling tired all the time. The 24/7 care that is involved in looking after a newborn. The huge sense of responsibility that comes with being a parent. Sound familiar?
5 mins to read
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap is a yellow crusty substance found on your baby’s scalp or eye brows that may be oily or dry to touch.
2 mins to read
The Battle Against Parent Guilt and Other Emotions
If there’s one feeling that unites mums and dads all around the world in the rollercoaster of parenting emotions, it’s guilt—and most commonly it’s a mother’s guilt.
3 mins to read
Working Mother
Taking care of a newborn baby is a full-time job which requires dedication from you and your family.
4 mins to read
Understanding Your Crying Infant: A Guide to Infant Colic and More
Crying is your baby’s first form of communication and is designed to provoke adults into action.
9 mins to read
Is Shared Parenting the Future?
Sharing time with the kids. Sharing all housework. The mental load divided. Shared parenting may sound like the dream but is it really achievable?
4 mins to read
Baby Eczema
The skin is your baby’s largest organ and plays a really important role in protecting your little one from external bacteria and infections.
5 mins to read
Thoughtful Gifts for New Parents
In this article, we will explore a variety of gift ideas for new parents that cater to different budgets.
4 mins to read
Bathing Baby
Your baby will love a nice warm bath and if not, be patient – it won’t take long and they will and won’t want to get out!
6 mins to read
Baby Blues
Many women experience mixed emotions after the birth of their baby. Getting the right support is key if you’re feeling low. Read our tips on managing baby blues.
6 mins to read
10 Tips For Reframing Negative Thoughts
Negative thoughts have a way of creeping in from time to time, which can make us doubt our path as parents. Read our tips to help reframe your thinking.
8 mins to read