From the Guidelines
To treat a mother's nipples when her baby has oral thrush, both mother and baby should be treated simultaneously with an antifungal agent, and nystatin cream is a suitable option for the mother's nipples, as it is compatible with breastfeeding 1. When treating the mother's nipples, it is essential to consider the safety of the medication during breastfeeding. According to the study, nystatin cream is classified as category A, indicating that it is compatible with breastfeeding 1. The mother should apply the nystatin cream to her nipples after each feeding, gently wiping off any residue before the next feeding.
- Key considerations for treatment include:
- Simultaneous treatment of both mother and baby to prevent reinfection
- Use of an antifungal agent, such as nystatin cream, that is safe for breastfeeding
- Good hygiene practices, including washing hands before touching breasts and keeping nipples dry between feedings
- Sterilizing items that come in contact with the baby's mouth or mother's breasts to prevent reinfection It is crucial to note that other antifungal medications, such as fluconazole, may be present in breast milk, but the amount is less than the neonatal dosage, and no problems have been seen in breastfed infants from mothers treated with oral fluconazole 1. However, nystatin cream is a preferred option due to its compatibility with breastfeeding and minimal risk of adverse effects 1.
From the Research
Treatment Options
- The treatment for a mother's nipples when her baby has oral thrush typically involves antifungal medications, with the goal of eliminating the yeast infection and relieving symptoms such as pain and discomfort 2, 3.
- Topical antifungal creams or ointments, such as nystatin or clotrimazole, may be applied to the mother's nipples to help clear the infection 2, 4.
- In some cases, oral antifungal medications like fluconazole may be prescribed for the mother, especially if the infection is severe or persistent 2, 3, 5.
- It is essential to treat both the mother and the baby simultaneously to prevent reinfection and ensure successful breastfeeding 2, 4.
Considerations for Breastfeeding
- Fortunately, fluconazole is considered safe for use during breastfeeding, and mothers do not need to interrupt breastfeeding while being treated with this medication 5.
- However, it is crucial to monitor the baby for any potential side effects or signs of infection, such as diaper rash or oral thrush, while the mother is being treated with antifungal medications 6, 5.
Additional Measures
- Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and proper cleaning of breastfeeding equipment, can help prevent the spread of the infection 4.
- The mother may also need to adjust her breastfeeding technique or use a nipple shield to reduce discomfort and prevent further irritation of the nipples 3.