I have a (probably) stupid question about THRUSH - feel free to come laugh at me....

[LadyOfTheFlowers]

If you are taking antibs which cause thrush downstairs, is the thrush also lurking in your nipples?

I am about to start a course of antibs the Doc has just prescribed (who knows I am BFing) and I usually end up getting thrush when on them and was wondering if DD will then get it in her mouth?

It is quite possible you will get nipple thrush whilst taking them, if you do then it's likely that you DD could get thrush in her mouth too.

As I understand it, the thrush organism consists of spores which naturally occur in your vagina. They are kept in control by the "good" bacteria present. Antibiotics mess with the good bacteria and allow the candida to proliferate. This is spread to towels, bedding etc and so can pass to nipples and mouths.. It thrives in warm, moist environments.

You need to either take acidophilous tablets (from healthfood shops) or eat lots of live yoghurt containing acidophilous. Also, regularly hot wash towels, sheets, bras etc and regularly change breast pads. Prevention is better than thrush on your nipples - trust me!

Ihad nipple thrush with DS2 and he kept getting it in his mouth - it was growing out of his mouth on one occaision too.

What do those tablets do then? Keep it at bay? And are obv safe while BFing. I am not keen on yoghurt and would deffo like to keep it at bay if I can.

Yes they are safe. They were recommended to me by the NCT BF counsellor. The help to restore the good bacteria, you have too keep them in the fridge as heat kills the active organism. They are not cheap (about £10 for 2 months worth) but they are well worth it.