Can Breastfeeding Moms with Thrush Safely Care for Their Babies?

Questions about maternal Candida albicans and neonatal oral thrush?

Hello, doctor.
I used a gauze cloth to wipe the area where breast milk dripped (the inner thigh) while expressing milk.
Can I still use this cloth for my baby afterwards? Can the gauze cloth be washed together with the baby's other clothes? I'm not sure if I have a Candida infection, and to be cautious, I would like to know if such an infection could potentially affect my baby and lead to oral thrush.
Thank you.

Xinshou Ma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/06

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

If there are no obvious abnormal lesions on the wiped skin (skin candidiasis may present with itching and a rash, while vaginal candidiasis may also cause itching and discharge), it should still be safe to wash the baby's clothing together and continue using them.
Similarly, if there are no clear signs of candidiasis on the skin and the gauze has been properly cleaned, it should not lead to an oral candidiasis infection in the newborn.

Reply Date: 2021/05/06

More Info

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for both mother and baby, but it does come with certain considerations, especially when it comes to infections like thrush, which is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus. If a breastfeeding mother has thrush, it is important to understand how it can affect her baby and what precautions should be taken.

First, let's address the concern about using a cloth that has been in contact with the mother's breast area. If the mother is experiencing thrush, it is advisable to avoid using any cloth that may have come into contact with infected areas on the breast for the baby's use. This includes any cloths used to wipe milk or any other bodily fluids. The risk of transferring the Candida fungus to the baby, especially if the cloth is used on the baby's mouth or face, is a concern. Therefore, it is best to wash the cloth thoroughly before using it again or to avoid using it altogether for the baby.

Regarding laundry, it is generally safe to wash the cloth with the baby's other clothes, provided that the mother is diligent about washing everything in hot water and using a good detergent. However, if there is a known infection, it may be prudent to wash the baby's items separately to minimize any risk of cross-contamination.
Now, concerning the risk of the baby developing oral thrush (also known as "thrush" or "candidiasis"), it is possible for the baby to contract thrush from the mother if proper hygiene practices are not followed. If the mother has thrush, she should take steps to treat the infection promptly and consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate antifungal treatments. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and ensuring that any items that come into contact with the baby's mouth are clean, is crucial in preventing the spread of the infection.

If a mother is unsure whether she has thrush, she should look for symptoms such as white patches in the mouth, soreness, or discomfort during breastfeeding. A healthcare provider can perform an examination and provide a diagnosis. If thrush is confirmed, both the mother and baby may need treatment to prevent reinfection.

In conclusion, while breastfeeding is generally safe and beneficial, mothers with thrush should take extra precautions to protect their babies from potential infections. This includes avoiding the use of contaminated cloths, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical advice if thrush is suspected. By taking these steps, mothers can continue to enjoy the benefits of breastfeeding while minimizing any risks to their babies.

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