Baby Thrush
Thrush is a fungal infection and can be found in your baby’s mouth, nappy area or under the chin. The fungus lives on the skin and usually causes no harm, but when conditions are favourable, it thrives and causes havoc.
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
Virus or Bacterial Infection?
Many illnesses in infancy are caused by either viral or bacterial infections. Your doctor can help establish which type of infection your baby has and how to possibly treat them.
3 mins to read
Understanding Baby Fever
One of the biggest concerns that parents have is when their baby has a fever. It is also a common reason why parents seek medical advice for their infant.
12 mins to read
Baby Vaccinations and Immunisation Schedule
Fortunately parents do not have daily reminders of the chronic debilitation and deaths caused by diseases such as whooping cough, polio, measles and diphtheria.
3 mins to read
Baby Allergies
Statistics show that Australia has one of the highest rates of allergies in the world, although it’s not entirely understood why.
10 mins to read
Baby Probiotics and Gut Health
Wondering how to support your infant's gut health? Learn how baby probiotics may help.
6 mins to read
Human Milk Oligosaccharides & Infant Immune Health
Explore the role of Human Milk Oligosaccharides in breast milk and how they support infant immunity and promote a healthy gut.
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
Reflux in Newborns & Babies
Reflux in babies is fairly common in their first year of life. While in most cases it is harmless and not a cause for concern, it is never a tidy situation to be in.
8 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
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
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
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
What is Colic in Babies?
Wondering how to help your colicky baby? Learn more about baby colic and get tips on how to soothe colic symptoms here.
5 mins to read
Baby Poo - What You Need to Know
Your baby’s poo lets you know how well their digestive system is performing, and what is ‘normal’ is a source of common confusion for most parents.
10 mins to read
What To Do When Your Baby Has 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
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
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
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
My Baby Has A Flattened Head
Your newborn’s skull is thin and flexible making it easy to mould.
3 mins to read
