Featured video
Breastfeeding in public in Hull
Recently asked questions
Q. Is it ok to breastfeed whilst taking the contraceptive pill?
Q. Are there any foods I should avoid eating while I'm breastfeeding?
Q. What are osteoporosis, diabetes and anaemia?
Q. Does breastfeeding really reduce the risk of cancer?
Q. Will I be able to carry on breastfeeding my 1 year old at the same time as my new baby?
Q. Can I continue to breastfeed if myself and my baby have thrush? If I express milk whilst we have thrush, can I store and use this milk at a later date?
It is fine for the baby to continue breastfeeding and it is encouraged as breastmilk contains substances that will inhibit thrush growth whereas formula may exacerbate the problem. Both yourself and baby require a medical diagnosis if you have not already had one and both of you will require treatment as otherwise you will just keep passing it from one to the other. Both of you need to complete the course of treatment, as prescribed, even when the symptoms have disappeared otherwise the infection will reoccur.Any expressed milk will need to be discarded and not stored as freezing milk does not kill the yeast cells and its possible that reinfection will occur. If you are using hand pumps or dummies or anything else that could carry the thrush infection they need to be sterilised properly.
It is advisable that you keep you nipples dry and if you can, avoid breast pads as moisture will encourage thrush growth. You can use disposable breast pads if needed and change regularly.
You will need to pay particular attention to hygiene particularly after nappy changing and to keep a separate towel for each family member. Sometimes thrush can be persistent so if you find it does not clear up please speak to your Health Visitor who will be able to suggest other interventions to help you continue breastfeeding.
Share |
