Oral Thrush in Babies: Signs & Treatment | Parenting Hub
White patches in baby's mouth that don't wipe off — and burning nipples for mum — usually mean thrush. Both of you need treatment.
Thrush is a yeast infection that can cause white patches in baby's mouth, deep burning nipple pain in mum, and a stubborn nappy rash. Treat both of you together.
What it looks like
- Baby: white patches on tongue, inner cheeks, gums or palate that don't wipe off (milk does)
- Baby may fuss at the breast or refuse feeds
- Often a matching red, pimply nappy rash that doesn't respond to barrier cream
- Mum: deep burning, shooting nipple pain during and after feeds — often pink, shiny, itchy nipples
Why it happens
Common after antibiotics (yours or baby's), with cracked nipples, in damp conditions, or with reflux. Babies can have thrush without symptoms in mum, and vice versa.
Treatment
Both of you need treatment, even if only one has symptoms — otherwise you reinfect each other.
- Baby: oral antifungal gel or drops (prescription) for 7–14 days
- Mum: antifungal cream on nipples after each feed
- Wash bras, bottles, dummies and breast pump parts in hot water daily
- Continue feeding as normal — milk is safe
When to seek help
- Baby refusing all feeds
- Bleeding patches in mouth
- Spreading rash with fever
- Symptoms persisting beyond 14 days of treatment
Common questions
How do I tell milk tongue from thrush?
Milk wipes off easily with a damp cloth. Thrush patches stick and may bleed slightly if rubbed.
Can I keep breastfeeding?
Yes — and you should. Stopping doesn't clear the infection and risks supply.