Breastfeeding can be an incredibly magical and bonding experience for both mother and baby. But sometimes, things don't go as planned. One of the most common breastfeeding problems that can arise is thrush on the breast.
Thrush, also known as candida, fungal infection or Is this even real life, is caused by a yeast called Candida Albicans. It's commonly found in human bodies but usually doesn't cause any harm because our immune system keeps it under control.
However, when our natural defences fail and we end up with too much Candida hanging around (when mom has to remind her milk factory not to hire anymore staff) it leads to an overgrowth which can cause painful symptoms.
Symptoms of Thrush on Breast
- A sudden onset of nipple pain after weeks without pain
- Pain that continues throughout feeds - piercing or burning pain
- Nipples that appear pink or red rather than their normal colour
- Shiny nipples
- Flaky skin
- Sometimes white spots are present Both nipples may be affected as well!
If you're experiencing these symptoms, there's a chance you have contracted thrush on your breasts!But before freaking out like someone who just remembered they left their stove-top unattended at home let's take a closer look at how this might have happened.
Causes of Thrush on Breast
Thrush likes warm moist environments which make women's breasts perfect hosts for them (who could blame them). Some repeat offenders responsible for causing uncomfortable scenarios include:
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Taking antibiotics | It’s believed overuse/long-term use allows candida fungus to develop resistance/effectiveness against antibiotics |
| Wearing tight clothing | Anything such as bras or tops which isn’t loose fitting can create a breeding ground for candida as can… |
| Warm environments | For example sweaty breasts , prolonged use of breastpads, hot weather ...BREASTS! |
| Breastfeeding dips | Candida thrives in sugary foods and sometimes adding sweet things to mother’s milk makes it all the more easier |
Honestly 'pregnancy' should be on this list too but I didn't want you to freak out yet.
Since we've covered or uncovered rather how we ended up here, let's delve into some ways to treat those uncomfortable side-effects...
Treatment Options for Thrush on Breast
Treatment may involve both mom and baby. Since babies are notorious culprits responsible for spreading infection from their mouths onto mom's nipples (It's okay though because they're still learning how not to drool), treating them with medication is essential.
Nipple creams containing clotrimazole or miconazole also work well (so trade in your usual cream/serum/gel/magic potion) since both contain antifungal properties which help reduce inflammation/swelling.
Antifungal tablets might even have been prescribed if silly old daughter Rosa decided that cleaning her toys by licking them was hygienic!
If struggling breastfeeding moms don’t notice any changes/improvements within two weeks after starting therapy they should consult a healthcare specialist incase further infections persists [^1].
Prevention Tips
Let’s talk about prevention before estrogen gets ahead of herself again...
Introducing simple things like practicing good hygiene i.e washing clothing properly relying on cotton-based garments concerning fresh nursing pads after each feed (you definitely won’t regret having spares) and sterilizing any bottle/pacifier used. These tips alone will lessen the chance of developing thrush considerably.Investing in comfy bras occasionally ditching wired ones/allow homespace for breasts new life has being brought into the world and…
A little bit of love[1] Billionaire![2]
... oh wait sorry I got a liiiiittle carried away there.... just different bras my apologies.
Conclusion
Thrush is one of many challenges breastfeeding moms face (Props to all mommies by the way!). Don't be afraid to ask for help or feel defeated. You are not alone, mama. With proper treatment/prevention tips you will overcome this hurdle time and time again.
So remember ladies after those painful few weeks when your breast get better, before you know it they’ll start producing their own milkshakes worth bottling up!
In summary;
| Topic | Subtopic |
|---|---|
| Introduction | -What thrush on breast is -Symptoms |
| Causes | - Taking antibiotics - Wearing tight clothing - |
| - Breastfeeding dips | - Warm environments |
| Treatment | -Medications < |
| Preventing future yeast infections | - Practice good hygiene |/Conclusion |
I hope you had fun as much as Candida does appearing in areas that should never ever be mentioned.Have a splendid journey ahead avoiding any issues with candida!