My thrush won't go away!

I have had thrush on my nipples since my son was born. We have tried many different anti-fungal prescriptions but nothing seems to be clearing it up. Could you please recommend something to help with this. My son does not have oral thrush. We treat the infection and then I have maybe 10 days of relief and it is back again. I treat for 2 weeks after I have no visible signs of infection. I have washed everything I wear next to my breasts with very hot water and dried in a hot drier. I am using precautions to prevent myself from re-infection by changing towels often, washing my hands every time I even think I may have contaminated myself.

Is there something I am missing? Could I be doing more to stop this from happening. I am seriously thinking about weaning to be able to take an oral anti-fungal to systemically rid myself of this problem. I was told I could not take this pill while breastfeeding. I would appreciate anything You might have to help.

Thanks Corinne




 

Dear Corinne,

I know how miserable you must be--I doubt there is anything that could cause more pain for breastfeeding women! I have worked with many women with this problem. Many, like you, have used numerous anti-fungals. Unfortunately, some of us just seem to be more resistant than others. 

Two things you said jumped out at me. First, you said your baby does not have oral thrush. It is not unusual for babies to be asymptomatic, but if the baby is not treated, you will never get rid of the problem! Oral nystatin can be prescribed by your pediatrician. Most are now knowledgeable about this. If not, then maybe you can educate yours! Also, oral diflucan is now approved for use in babies. Both of you can be treated with it. However, it is quite expensive. Have your tried gentian violet? If not, then you might want to. It is very inexpensive and available over-the-counter. Although it is messy (a purple dye), it does work very quickly--usually within a couple days.

There is information about both gentian violet and diflucan at the following website. Just click on the blue letters:

http://www.erols.com/cindyrn/drjack0.htm Jack Newmans Articles

Hope this helps!

Cher Sealy, RN, BSN, IBCLC, LLLL





 

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