What are the symptoms of oral thrush in babies. How can parents treat infant oral thrush naturally at home. Are natural remedies effective for treating oral thrush in infants. What causes oral thrush in babies and how can it be prevented.

Understanding Oral Thrush in Infants

Oral thrush is a common condition affecting many infants, characterized by an overgrowth of Candida Albicans, a type of yeast naturally present in the human body. While several Candida species can cause thrush, C. Albicans is the most prevalent culprit. This fungal infection typically occurs when there’s an imbalance in the baby’s immune system or oral microbiome.

What causes oral thrush in babies? The condition often results from:

• An immature immune system
• Disruption in the balance of oral bacteria
• Exposure to yeast during birth if the mother has an active vaginal yeast infection
• Use of antibiotics, which can disturb the natural balance of microorganisms

Recognizing Oral Thrush Symptoms

How can parents identify oral thrush in their infants? Look for these common signs:

• White, cottony patches inside the mouth
• Bleeding when these patches are wiped
• Redness in the oral cavity
• Increased fussiness or irritability
• Shorter feeding sessions or refusal to feed

Is it possible to confuse oral thrush with other conditions? Indeed, many parents and even some healthcare providers mistake milk tongue for oral thrush. Both conditions can present with a white coating on the tongue. However, thrush typically manifests as cottony patches throughout the mouth, not just on the tongue. If you notice white areas on the moist surfaces of your baby’s lips and cheeks, it’s more likely to be thrush.

Natural Remedies for Infant Oral Thrush

Can natural remedies effectively treat oral thrush in babies? While medical treatments are available, many parents prefer natural approaches. Here are some home remedies that may help manage infant oral thrush:

1. Probiotics

How can probiotics help combat oral thrush? Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore balance to the oral microbiome. They work by competing with Candida for resources and space, potentially reducing the overgrowth of yeast.

Which probiotic strains are most effective for oral thrush? Look for products containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Lactobacillus reuteri, or Saccharomyces boulardii. These can be given to infants in liquid form or applied directly to the affected areas in the mouth.

2. Coconut Oil

Why is coconut oil considered a natural remedy for oral thrush? Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a compound with potent antifungal properties. It can help inhibit the growth of Candida while being gentle on the baby’s delicate oral tissues.

How should coconut oil be applied? Gently swab a small amount of organic, virgin coconut oil onto the affected areas in your baby’s mouth using a clean finger or cotton swab. Repeat this process several times a day, especially after feedings.

3. Saltwater Rinse

Can a saltwater rinse help with infant oral thrush? Yes, a mild saltwater solution can create an unfavorable environment for yeast growth while promoting healing of irritated tissues.

How to prepare and use a saltwater rinse for babies:

1. Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water
2. Dip a clean cloth or gauze into the solution
3. Gently wipe the inside of your baby’s mouth, focusing on the affected areas
4. Repeat this process 2-3 times daily

The Science Behind Natural Thrush Treatments

How do natural remedies combat oral thrush? These treatments generally work in two ways:

1. Directly destroying the fungal cells
2. Preventing the growth and replication of Candida

The ultimate goal is to restore balance to the oral microbiome, thereby alleviating symptoms.

Are herbal extracts effective against oral thrush? Some herbal extracts have shown promise in treating Candida infections. For instance, turmeric has potent antifungal properties and has demonstrated effectiveness against Candida in multiple studies. However, it’s crucial to note that most herbal extracts available on the market haven’t been specifically studied for treating oral thrush in infants.

Preventing Oral Thrush in Infants

How can parents prevent oral thrush in their babies? While it’s not always possible to prevent thrush, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Practice good oral hygiene for both parent and baby
• Sterilize bottles, pacifiers, and breast pump parts regularly
• If breastfeeding, keep nipples clean and dry
• Limit sugar intake, as Candida thrives on sugar
• Boost the baby’s immune system through a balanced diet (for older infants) and adequate sleep

When to Seek Medical Attention

When should parents consult a healthcare provider for their baby’s oral thrush? While natural remedies can be effective, it’s important to seek medical advice if:

• Symptoms persist for more than two weeks despite home treatment
• The baby develops a fever or shows signs of discomfort
• Thrush interferes with feeding or causes significant fussiness
• The infection spreads to other parts of the body

A healthcare provider can confirm the diagnosis and may prescribe antifungal medication if necessary. Remember, oral thrush is often over-diagnosed, so professional evaluation can ensure appropriate treatment.

The Role of Diet in Managing Oral Thrush

Can dietary changes help manage oral thrush in infants? While babies under six months primarily rely on breast milk or formula, dietary adjustments can be beneficial for older infants and breastfeeding mothers.

What dietary modifications may help combat oral thrush?

• Reduce sugar intake, as Candida thrives on sugar
• Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt (for older infants)
• Include foods with natural antifungal properties, such as garlic and coconut oil (for breastfeeding mothers)
• Ensure adequate vitamin C intake to boost the immune system

For breastfeeding mothers, maintaining a balanced diet can help support their baby’s immune system and potentially reduce the risk of thrush recurrence.

Common Myths About Infant Oral Thrush

Are there misconceptions about oral thrush in babies? Yes, several myths persist about this condition. Let’s debunk some common misunderstandings:

Myth 1: All white patches in a baby’s mouth are thrush

Is this true? No, not all white patches indicate thrush. As mentioned earlier, milk tongue can be easily mistaken for thrush. A proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider is crucial.

Myth 2: Thrush always requires medical treatment

Do all cases of oral thrush need prescription medication? Not necessarily. Mild cases often respond well to natural remedies and home care. However, persistent or severe cases may require medical intervention.

Myth 3: Thrush is always passed from mother to baby during breastfeeding

Is thrush always transmitted through breastfeeding? While it’s possible for thrush to pass between mother and baby, it’s not the only cause. Thrush can develop independently in infants due to various factors affecting their oral microbiome.

Long-term Management of Oral Thrush in Infants

How can parents prevent recurrent episodes of oral thrush? Long-term management involves a combination of good hygiene practices, dietary considerations, and boosting the baby’s overall health:

• Maintain strict hygiene for feeding equipment and toys
• Continue probiotic supplementation even after symptoms resolve
• Monitor and limit sugar intake in the baby’s diet
• Ensure the baby gets adequate sleep to support immune function
• Consider regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist once teeth emerge

Is it possible to completely eliminate the risk of oral thrush? While it’s challenging to eliminate all risk, these practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of recurrence and promote overall oral health in infants.

The Importance of Gut Health

How does gut health relate to oral thrush in babies? The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in overall immune function. A healthy gut can help prevent the overgrowth of Candida not just in the digestive system, but also in the mouth.

What steps can parents take to support their baby’s gut health?

• Breastfeed if possible, as breast milk contains beneficial bacteria
• Introduce probiotic-rich foods when appropriate (for older infants)
• Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use, which can disrupt the gut microbiome
• Consider probiotic supplements designed for infants

Alternative Therapies for Infant Oral Thrush

Are there other alternative treatments for oral thrush in babies? While less common, some parents explore other natural approaches:

Colloidal Silver

Can colloidal silver help with oral thrush? Some proponents claim colloidal silver has antifungal properties. However, its safety and efficacy for infants are not well-established, and it should only be used under professional guidance.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Is grapefruit seed extract effective against oral thrush? This natural extract has shown antifungal properties in some studies. However, its use in infants requires caution and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Gentian Violet

What about gentian violet for treating oral thrush? While gentian violet has been used historically for thrush, concerns about its potential toxicity and carcinogenic effects have emerged, especially with oral application. It’s no longer widely recommended for infants.

Remember, always consult with a healthcare provider before trying any alternative treatments on your baby.

The Impact of Environmental Factors on Oral Thrush

Can environmental factors influence the development of oral thrush in infants? Indeed, several environmental considerations can play a role:

Humidity and Temperature

How do humidity and temperature affect oral thrush? High humidity and warm temperatures can create an environment conducive to yeast growth. Ensuring proper ventilation in the baby’s room and maintaining a comfortable temperature can help mitigate this risk.

Exposure to Irritants

Can certain substances increase the risk of oral thrush? Yes, exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke or harsh cleaning chemicals can potentially disrupt the oral microbiome, making it more susceptible to Candida overgrowth.

Water Quality

Does water quality matter in preventing oral thrush? Clean, filtered water is important for preparing formula and cleaning feeding equipment. Poor water quality could introduce harmful microorganisms that disrupt the oral microbiome.

By being mindful of these environmental factors, parents can create a healthier environment that supports their baby’s oral health and reduces the risk of thrush.

The Role of Stress in Infant Oral Thrush

Can stress affect oral thrush in babies? While infants may not experience stress in the same way adults do, factors that disrupt their routine or comfort can impact their immune system and potentially increase susceptibility to infections like thrush.

What situations might cause stress in infants?

• Changes in routine or environment
• Separation anxiety
• Teething discomfort
• Illness or physical discomfort

How can parents minimize stress to support their baby’s health? Maintaining a consistent routine, providing comfort during stressful situations, and ensuring adequate rest can all help support the baby’s immune system and potentially reduce the risk of oral thrush.

Future Perspectives in Treating Infant Oral Thrush

What advancements are on the horizon for treating oral thrush in infants? Research in this field continues to evolve, with several promising areas:

Microbiome-based Therapies

How might microbiome research impact thrush treatment? Scientists are exploring ways to manipulate the oral microbiome to prevent Candida overgrowth. This could lead to more targeted probiotic treatments or even personalized microbiome interventions.

Novel Antifungal Compounds

Are new antifungal treatments being developed? Researchers are investigating natural compounds with antifungal properties that are safe for infants. These could provide alternatives to traditional antifungal medications.

Immunomodulatory Approaches

How might boosting the immune system help prevent thrush? Future treatments may focus on enhancing the baby’s immune response to Candida, potentially preventing overgrowth before it starts.

As research progresses, we may see more effective and gentler treatments for infant oral thrush, combining the best of natural remedies and medical advancements.

3 home remedies for treating your baby’s oral thrush

Natural Remedies You Can Use At Home To Treat Your Baby’s Oral Thrush

Many parents are looking for natural ways to treat their baby’s oral thrush. I know this is true for my area – many parents I work with living in The Bay Area will avoid taking antibiotics if they can help it.

Previously, I covered natural home remedies for treating nipple thrush. In this post, I will provide information on oral thrush treatment in babies.

What Is Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a condition in which Candida Albicans, a yeast/fungus, overgrows in the mouth. Technically thrush can be caused by other strains of the Candida fungus, however, C. Albicans is the most common.

We have Candida all over and in our bodies, including in our mouths. Only when there’s an overgrowth of the Candida population that it becomes an issue. An imbalance in the immune system, an immature immune system, and/or a disruption in the balance of the bacteria populations are the most common causes of the development of thrush. If a baby is born when the parent has an active yeast infection, they may be more likely to develop oral thrush.

Oral Thrush Symptoms in babies may include

• White coating /cottony patches in the mouth
• Bleeding when the patches/coating is wiped off
• Areas of redness inside the oral space
• Fussiness / Irritability
• Shorter Feeds or Feeding Refusal

Will A Natural Remedy For Oral Thrush Work?

One of the biggest challenges with managing oral thrush is identifying it. Many parents (and providers alike!) confuse oral thrush with milk tongue, as both may present with a white coating on the tongue. When babies have oral thrush, they often develop cottony patches on many parts of their mouths, not just the tongue.

If you notice white areas on the wet surface of their lips & cheeks, it’s likely thrush, and the at-home remedies discussed below should help. You should expect to see fewer white patches within five days.

Resolution of symptoms after home treatment will not be the case for the milk tongue- the likely being a build-up of milk on the tongue surface due to poor tongue lift. While milk tongue is not an issue in itself, it can be a sign of feeding challenges & if you’re dealing with “thrush-like symptoms,” feeding challenges may be to blame.

Oral thrush is significantly over-diagnosed & thereby, babies are overtreated. Thrush is not as common as once thought. In fact, it is often the least likely explanation for the symptoms parents report.

For this reason, I highly encourage you to schedule a visit if you suspect your baby has thrush or, at the very least, if you don’t see any improvement after trialing at-home thrush management, especially if you’re having nipple pain.

How Do At-Home Remedies Treat Oral Thrush?

A thrush infection may be treated in two ways: by destroying the fungus cell or stopping it from growing and replicating. In both circumstances, the goal is to bring the Candida population back into balance, resulting in the reversal of symptoms.

One of the benefits of treating oral thrush, as opposed to nipple thrush, is that we can act directly on the fungus cell, killing it. Killing the fungus cell via direct application is the idea behind some of the recommendations you can find online such as oral application of herbal extracts & gentian violet.

Many herbal extracts have shown effectiveness against candida & some have even looked at how well they work against oral thrush. One of note is Tumeric, an herb with potent antifungal properties that has been shown to kill candida in multiple studies*. One major consideration with using turmeric extract, for example, to treat oral thrush is that they are alcohol-based & may cause a burning sensation with the application if there are any areas of redness or sores. Additionally, no herbal extract available on the market has been studied for thrush treatment or use in babies.

Herbal extracts are not the same as herbal essential oils (EOs). Many posts discuss treating oral thrush naturally & include recommendations for essential oils, though there are conflicting opinions about the safety of oral usage of EOs. Herbal extracts, on the other hand, such as teas or tinctures, are well recognized as being safe for ingestion.

* There are, of course, countering studies that show modest to no effects on candida Albicans, especially compared to prescription antifungal medication used to treat oral thrush.

A Note About Gentian Violet

There’s little doubt about its effectiveness in treating oral thrush- it certainly will get the job done. However, concerns have emerged over the years about its potential toxicity & cancerogenic effects, especially with the oral application. Using GV for too long may cause significant irritation & ulcers. It’s messy & it stains- staining may make follow-up assessment a challenge. Due to these factors, Gentian Violet has fallen out of favor, and I don’t recommend its use in my practice.

Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) is a commonly recommended home remedy for oral thrush. The evidence supports that GSE can & does kill CandidaAlbicans, though I could find no studies that looked at the effectiveness against oral thrush infections. One major drawback to using it for oral thrush is that it can burn the mucosal membranes in the wrong concentration. Unfortunately, there is a lack of clear guidance about what concentrations pose little risk & and many parents are buying whatever option is available to them, regardless of the concentration. Because there are lower-risk alternatives, I don’t recommend it to the parents I work with.

Natural Remedies For Getting Rid Of Your Baby’s Thrush?

Swab Your Babys Mouth With Baking Soda Solution

The method:

1.  Mix 1 tsp of Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) & 1 cup of warm water.

2.  Use a q-tip to apply the baking soda solution to all parts of your baby’s mouth.

3.  Apply 3–4 x a day.

The science: Thrush thrives in acidic environments, so by changing the ph level of your baby’s mouth to be more alkaline, you can help prevent the reproduction & growth of Candida cells.

Apply Coconut Oil To The Inside Of Your Baby’s Mouth

The method: Use a q tip to gently apply coconut oil to your baby’s tongue & the insides portion of their lips & cheeks 4 x a day. If you’re also doing the baby soda swabs, apply the coconut oil afterward.

The science: Coconut oil contains high amounts of fatty acids & direct application of fatty acids to Candida cells has been shown to kill them.

Sterilize Pacis, Bottles, Nipple Shield & Toys Your Baby Chew One Daily

The method: Sterilize your baby’s pacifiers, bottles, or anything they put in their mouth at least once a day by boiling them for at least 10 minutes.

The science: boiling kills off any thrush spores that have been transferred from your baby’s mouth onto the object’s surface.

Offer Yogurt & Fermented Foods With Meals (If Your Baby Is Old Enough)

The method: If your baby is eating solids, you can offer yogurt, kefir, or the juice of fermented foods, such as fermented pickles or sauerkraut, with their meals. Fermented foods have a distinctive sour taste which your baby may find intense. Luckily a little goes a long way to populating your baby’s gut with beneficial probiotics.

Best brands for probiotic-rich yogurt includes Stonyfield & Siggi. If your baby has a dairy sensitivity or allergy, you can try GT Cocoyo Living Coconut Yogurt, which you can find at Whole Foods.

The science: Probiotics help boost the immune system to help the body restore the balance of the yeast populations in/on your baby’s body.

Can I Get Nipple Thrush If My Baby Has Oral Thrush?

Technically thrush is considered spreadable, though it’s not exactly what occurs. Candida cells certainly are passed back and forth between your nipple and your baby’s mouth- this is true for bacteria as well. However, thrush only occurs if the person the yeast is on has an immune system that can’t keep the candida population in check. If your baby has oral thrush and your immune system is disrupted due to stress or illness, there’s a possibility that you may develop thrush. For this reason, standard recommendations have been to treat both parent and baby simultaneously to resolve thrush as quickly as possible if there is reason to think that parent or baby will be more susceptible.

Final Thoughts & Key Takeaway

I’ve found working with the parents I see in my practice, however, that even in diagnostically confirmed cases of thrush (via oral culture), the nipple pain a parent is experiencing is generally due to some other cause. Once we address that, parents feel better without any treatment, natural or otherwise!

If you suspect your baby has thrush & it’s affecting your baby’s ability or willingness to eat, or you’ve not noticed an improvement trying to manage it at home, please schedule a visit. Assessing & managing oral thrush is something we can do virtually, or if you’re local, I am happy to see you in our office, located near Berkeley Ca.

Tags

• Thrush
• Candida
• BreastfeedingPain
• NipplePain
• ChestfeedingPain
• Breastfeeding
• Chestfeeding

Laura Howells (she/her) is an IBCLC and postpartum doula who works with clients in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has been happily supporting growing families during pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and the first years since 2009.

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Thursh in Babies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Think your baby has thrush? Here’s how to diagnose thrush in babies, treat it naturally, and even prevent it from reoccurring.

While it’s normal for infants to have white-coated tongues after feeding, how do we know for sure if these white bumps aren’t in fact oral thrush in babies? Here, we’ll show you how to spot thrush in babies, how to treat it naturally, and how to prevent it from recurring.

What Is Thrush in Babies?

Thrush, or oral candidiasis, is an accumulation of the fungus candida albicans in the mouth that causes white lesions, or sores, that look more like cottage cheese than the normal milky whiteness associated with babies’ milk tongue from breastmilk or formula.

This fungus is normally present in everyone’s mouth, but thrush in babies occurs more frequently in infants because of their weak immune systems.

Breastfeeding moms are at risk to get thrush too, since the infection can pass to mom’s breast (and oppositely, mom can pass it back to baby) and cause serious discomfort and pain.

Baby Thrush Symptoms

The key to identifying thrush in babies is by simply examining your baby’s mouth, cheeks, and tongue very carefully. And watch your baby’s eating habits closely.

Here’s what to look for:

• White lesions on child’s tongue and cheeks. These can be raised spots, a super thick coating, or overall tissue irritation
• Loss of appetite in baby
• Discomfort in baby while nursing

The lesions in baby’s mouth can cause pain and loss of taste, so it’s understandable that baby may be fussy.

[Image Source]

Thrush symptoms in breastfeeding moms

When thrush is passed to a nursing a mom, you might find that:

• Your nipples are unusually red, cracked, sensitive, or itchy
• You experience pain while nursing
• Your nipples feel sore between feedings

While all breastfeeding moms know nursing can be painful at times, pain from thrush is more intense, deeper than usual, and does not go away when your baby is done feeding. (source) Be sure to try this DIY nipple cream that greatly reduces nipple pain.

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What Causes Thrush in Babies?

The fungus or yeast that causes thrush is naturally occurring and prevalent in most people’s bodies. Thrush happens to many new moms and babies, though one study found it occurred less in homes where there was a furry pet, like a cat or dog. The good news, though: It is a common occurrence (especially in breastfed babies due to the warm moist area yeast likes) and is treatable.

Antibiotics

Our bodies, and our babies’ bodies, have a natural balance of microorganisms that keep us healthy. Bacteria sounds like a bad word, but there’s good bacteria and bad bacteria and antibiotics don’t discriminate. So, when mom or baby has to go on antibiotics, this disrupts the natural flora balance and makes us more susceptible to thrush. Luckily, there are so many wonderful ways to restore our balance, which we will talk about in the prevention section below. (source)

Weakened immune system

If neither you nor baby have been on antibiotics, there are other things that can weaken your immune system, such as illness, a poor diet, being exposed to harsh chemicals or just not getting enough sleep (very common with a newborn!). Check out this post for natural ways to boost your immune system.

Natural Thrush Treatments

If you go to your pediatrician, they will usually prescribe oral nystatin or fluconazole for you and baby. These are antifungal options that have been proven effective. But if you want to try to avoid these if possible, these are some excellent natural options. (Just be sure to get your doctor or pediatrician’s approval before using these natural remedies for thrush.)

1. Probiotics found in yogurt and breastmilk

If your baby is too young for yogurt there are safe probiotics for babies that you can look into. My doula recommended rubbing a serving of acidophilus powder on my nipple while breastfeeding, as this benefits both you and baby and your infected areas. You can make this DIY nipple cream that will give baby probiotics but also reduce your nipple pain dramatically.

2. Reducing sugar intake

If you are a nursing mom, reducing your sugar intake is essential, as a sugary diet can make symptoms worse (another reason why some moms and midwives are not fans of nystatin, which can contain sugar in order to make it palatable for infants, but it’s effectiveness is reduced in the process). (source) Focus on organic protein like eggs, chicken, beef, bison, turkey, wild caught fish and whole cultured dairy products. Add in tons of cooked organic vegetables in the form of soups, stews, or purees. Raw salads topped with homemade salad dressing with raw garlic are also excellent. Include small amounts of gluten-free grains like oats, millet and quinoa and plenty of healthy fats like butter, olive oil, avocado, and seeds. Keep fruit to only 1 serving per day of either green apple or grapefruit to keep sugars low. Check out these nourishing meals for a new mama for inspiration.

3. Grapefruit seed extract

Grapefruit seed extract mixed with distilled water is another way to combat the yeast causing thrush. (source) Grapefruit seed extract is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound made from the seeds and pulp of grapefruit. The recommended dosage is 10 drops of GSE (where to buy) mixed with one ounce of water, which is swabbed on mom’s sore nipples and baby’s tender mouth before nursing, just like the recommendation with probiotics.

4. Calendula extract

Pure calendula extract (where to buy) can be used to help eliminate thrush. Calendula extract can be used an alternative to gentian violet (which we’ll cover in the next section). Studies show that this herbal extract can inhibit yeast growth. (source)  Mamas can paint the extract on their nipples, but it’s also possible to paint the extract on your baby’s tongue too.

Tip: Always check with your pediatrician before administering any extracts or herbal preparations to your baby.

5. Take a peek at mama’s diet

In addition to reducing sugar intake, mama can infuse her diet with plenty of anti-fungal and anti-bacterial foods. This includes:

• Organic, whole yogurt. The tarter, the better!
• Garlic (Be sure to check out our pesto recipe)
• Oregano
• Onions
• Raw coconut oil
• Apple cider vinegar 

What About Gentian Violet?

Gentian violet is another popular natural remedy for thrush. In fact, when I was pregnant with Griffin, this was the go-to remedy, but should you use it?

It is an antiseptic dye used to treat a myriad of fungal infections. Despite the popularity of gentian violet, we can’t recommend this as a natural treatment for thrush for a few reasons.

The first concern that makes this remedy unpopular is the possible side-effect of increased swelling or soreness and the fact that it does turn your skin purple. Mamas who used gentian violent are quick to note purple nipples and a baby who looks like they rubbed their face in blackberries for a few days. (source) Purple staining is a nuisance, but that’s not the only issue with gentian violet.

Another (and more serious) problem with gentian violent is the potential carcinogen factor. Health Canada has issued warnings about gentian violent (source), and New Zealand dermatologists warn of potential for necrotic tissue. (source) Yikes!

For these reasons, it’s best to take a pass on gentian violet.

Preventing Baby Thrush

So, now that we know some ways to treat thrush in babies, what can we do to prevent it from happening in the first place? It’s all about supporting a natural flora balance in you and baby.

Some simple ways to do this include:

• Consider adding a good probiotic to your daily supplements. Just Thrive, BioKult and Prescript Assist are some of my favorites. (This is especially important if you or your baby ever have to take antibiotics.)
• Eliminate junk food, sugar and soda from your diet
• Keep your natural sugar intake low (even fruit). No more than 2-3 servings a day.
• Include antibacterial and antifungal foods regularly in your diet such as: garlic, herbs like thyme and oregano, raw coconut oil and butter, black cumin seed oil (where to buy), raw pumpkin seeds, etc.

How About You?

Did you or your baby have thrush? If you have any thrush remedies that worked for you, let us know in the comments below!

How to cure thrush at home?

Causes of vaginal candidiasis:

• weakening of the immune system;
• diabetes mellitus;
• violation of the microflora of the vagina;
• use of aromatic pads;
• taking antibiotics and hormonal drugs;
• childbearing period;
• wearing synthetic underwear;

Thrush symptoms:

• itching that worsens during sleep and after bathing;
• appearance of a curd-like discharge;
• pain during intercourse and while going to the toilet;

Treatment of vaginal candidiasis

If the above symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor and start treatment. If you skip the acute stage, then the thrush will become chronic, which is difficult to cure. It is not worth prescribing medications on your own, because then resistance of the fungus can develop.

In addition to medicines, you can also use traditional methods for treating thrush. They will help to quickly relieve symptoms and regulate the number of fungi:

1. Chamomile. This is a very common herb for the treatment of many diseases, which has an anti-inflammatory, antifungal effect, well heals microtraumas on the mucous membranes. For the treatment of thrush, a decoction for douching is prepared from chamomile inflorescences. For a liter of water, you need to take 2 tablespoons of dried flowers, boil and insist for 30 minutes. Strain the resulting broth and douche them 2 times a day;
2. Baking soda. It helps to cope with the symptoms of the disease and restore the normal microflora of the vagina. Take a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of warm water. This solution can be douched or washed away. And you can make a bath and sit in it for about half an hour;
3. Kalanchoe. You will need fresh juice of a medicinal plant. A tampon is soaked in it and inserted into the vagina for 2 hours. It is necessary to repeat the procedure in the morning and evening;
4. Honey. This bee product helps to cope with thrush. To prepare the solution, you need 1 tablespoon of honey per glass of water. A tampon can be soaked in this solution and left in the vagina overnight. And you can lubricate the mucous membrane;
5. Tar soap. Tar has an antibacterial and antifungal effect. It fights Candida very well. You need to use soap twice a day when washing;
6. Potassium permanganate. Potassium permanganate contains potassium permanganate, which has an antimicrobial effect. A solution of potassium permanganate is used when washing twice a day. With the dilution of manganese crystals, you need to be especially careful. The solution must be made slightly pink and monitor the complete dissolution of the agent, since burns may occur;
7. Sea buckthorn oil. The tool perfectly heals wounds, relieves the symptoms of thrush, fights fungi. It is necessary to soak a tampon in oil and insert it into the vagina, leave it overnight;

You can ask questions about thrush to our doctors online. For the prevention of thrush, it is recommended to visit a gynecologist at least once a year.

Always consult your doctor before using any traditional medicine prescriptions or medications. For the prevention of thrush, it is recommended to visit a gynecologist at least once a year.

There are contraindications. Specialist consultation is required.

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Let’s cope with thrush without medicinal methods

In the press, on television, in outdoor advertising, advertising of various drugs against an unpleasant fungal disease – thrush quite often slips through. However, the expectant or nursing mother is afraid to take medications, although it is “in position” and after childbirth that the thrush attacks the female body especially aggressively. Are there other ways to deal with this disease?

Where do mushrooms come from?

Thrush is a fungal disease caused by the fact that candida fungi begin to multiply actively on the mucous membranes of a person. If a person is completely healthy, the presence of these fungi in the body does not cause concern – the immune system keeps them in check. However, during pregnancy, a heavy burden falls on the body, and the immune response can fail. This may be due to both hormonal processes and the fact that the immune system is weakened by the fight against a viral infection.

Symptoms of thrush are known to many: cheesy discharge, sometimes very abundant, which is often accompanied by itching and burning in the perineum. (It happens that fungi also affect other organs, such as the oral mucosa, and then you have to deal with the symptoms of stomatitis).

In addition to diseases and specific hormonal disorders of pregnant and lactating women, which are difficult to influence without the help of a doctor, the reasons for the increased growth of fungal colonies in the body can be ignorance, our bad habits, and sometimes even simple laziness. The first reason on this list is ill-conceived nutrition. Fungi have a “lip is not a fool” – most of all they love flour and sweets. That is, the features of immunity, metabolism and the functioning of the excretory system of a person who eats unhealthy food work for the fungus.

The second reason is shortcomings in personal hygiene. The fungus loves moisture very much, and we often help it with this. How? Very simple! Beautiful synthetic underwear does not remove sweat from the body, does not allow secretions to dry quickly – and in such a “greenhouse” fungi multiply quickly. Disposable “everyday” pads that we wear, embarrassed by secretions and their smell, also interfere with air circulation and increase humidity. Particularly harmful are the air-tight pads that women use during critical days or with lochia after childbirth. After all, most of the pads that are actively advertised now do not “leave the skin dry and clean” at all, but turn the liquid into a gel and help fungi multiply and multiply.

The third reason is the notorious “chemistry”, all kinds of fragrances, detergents and preservatives. For example, the same pads quite often contain harmful substances with which the manufacturer flavored the pad. No less harmful to a weak mucosa can be panties that are poorly rinsed or washed with an inappropriate powder for you.

The fourth reason is the stagnation of blood in the small pelvis. A sedentary lifestyle, restrictions on sexual life and active movements that pregnancy and childbirth impose on a woman – all this leads to congestion in organs and tissues. And where the blood supply worsens, fungi live better there.

Is thrush dangerous?

Unfortunately, yes. Chronic thrush can conquer more and more expanses of your body and harm many organs, complicate breastfeeding, and the baby can become infected with it, passing through the birth canal.

How to be?

How to be, if it is impossible to put up with thrush, and one does not raise one’s hand to “poison” oneself with potent medicines? It is best to spend energy on the prevention and treatment of thrush in the early stages, in order to prevent a severe form when you can’t think of anything else.

Purchase cotton underwear (preferably white), wash it to get rid of the “chemistry” that inevitably resides in the fabric and wear without pads unless critical days require it. If necessary, change the linen more than once a day, wash it in a machine with a boiling mode and a minimum of detergent – it is best to use special eco-powders and gels or children’s washing powder. In the rinse cycle, run the machine twice. At home, if possible, go without underwear in a skirt or bathrobe, for better air circulation.

Use cellulose pads on critical days. There are cheap domestic ones, there are more expensive imported ones. The main thing is to change them as often as possible. Adjust your nutrition. Minimize “empty” carbohydrates, foods that contain a lot of sugar, yeast, or ferment when cooked (beer, wine, muffins, desserts, etc.). Beware of old cheese, raw mushrooms, chocolate, dried fruits, honey, nut pastes, pickles and marinades, potatoes, soy sauce, vinegar. Reduce milk intake – leave only low-fat sour-milk products.

Drink green tea 3-4 times a day – this can help cleanse the body of excess yeast. There should be more vegetables and fruits on your table. Eat fish, gluten-free grains (brown rice, millet, buckwheat), avoid foods containing gluten (wheat, rye, barley, semolina and pasta, oats). Consume dietary supplements that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

If the desired balance in the body has already been disturbed, you can, after consulting with your doctor, try to help yourself with long-known home remedies. The most famous of these is douching with apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons per liter of water, 2-4 times a day). At night, you can also put “garlic candles” (a clove of garlic is peeled from the upper rough shell, so as not to damage the clove itself, and is placed in the vagina). The effect is noticeable after 3 days. It is also useful to make baths for the perineum: with a decoction of oak bark, calendula, yarrow, rosemary (3 tablespoons of a decoction according to a standard recipe for each liter of water, sit in a warm bath for 15-20 minutes). Take inside bifidobacteria and put tampons with them, as well as treatment of concomitant viral infection.

For breastfeeding mothers

A symptom of thrush in a breastfeeding mother can be severe burning pain on the surface of the nipples or deep inside the breast. Unlike the pain of nipple cracks and mastitis, which gradually subsides while the baby suckles, this pain lasts throughout the feeding, continues immediately after it, and sometimes persists between feedings. Sometimes a sharp, shooting pain radiates from the nipple to the chest, back, or arm. All this is accompanied by increased sensitivity of the nipples, itching. If you are sure that the cause of the pain is not improper attachment or lactostasis, and you do not suffer from eczema, herpes or psoriasis, then it is most likely that you have thrush. Tests will help to confirm the diagnosis.

Warning: You don’t have to stop breastfeeding at all. To treat thrush in a child’s mouth, your doctor may prescribe special antifungal drops. You also need to follow the rules of hygiene when feeding: wash your hands often, cool your breasts carefully before feeding to reduce pain, as a last resort, express milk and feed your baby with a spoon.