Cures for Yeast

Cupboard Cures for Yeast

These articles in the "Cures" section are copyrighted and
are not to be reprinted without permission of the author.

Cupboard Cures is a series of articles to assist moms with some of the common breastfeeding challenges. It is a starting point and may give you some relief. You will find most of the remedies are already in your cupboard. Many of these "cures" have been used for centuries and many be of help for you until further assistance can be obtained.

What is yeast?

Yeast (candida) is a fungus that thrives in warm, moist, dark environments.
This infection is more common following antibiotic treatment.
Yeast can be found on persistently wet nipples or in the mouth and/or diaper area of the baby.

What are the symptoms?

When you have a sudden onset of burning nipple pain after a period of pain-free breastfeeding, consider a yeast issue.
Along with soreness and burning, there may be itchy, flakey, red, cracked, bleeding, or blistery nipples and sometimes shooting pains in the breast.
White cottage-cheese-like patches may be found on the tongue and side of the baby’s mouth, called oral thrush, and/or the baby may have a yeasty diaper rash.

What are some cupboard cures for yeast?
Those who are susceptible to yeast infections may benefit from the following cupboard cures in preventing yeast or taking of a mild case:

Air dry after feeding and even expose the nipples to the sun if possible (yeast dislikes sunlight).
Wash bras in hot water daily and dry in the sun.
Wear 100% cotton bras.
Change nursing pads after each feeding and avoid any plastic-lined pads.
Wash pump parts and anything that comes in contact with the baby’s mouth with hot soapy water and boil them for five minutes daily.
You can eat yogurt with live active cultures and take oral acidophilus. This will encourage the good bacteria to live in the gut and will discourage the yeast growth.
Using 1 cup of water and 1 TBSP vinegar mixed together and sprayed on the nipple will sometimes bring relief.

Decreasing sugars in the diet may help and some moms will also limit wheat, honey and alcohol.
Herbs and other natural remedies include: oregano, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and rosemary.
Jay Gordon, MD, who is also an IBCLC encourages the use of grapefruit seed extract (GSE). His website explains that “Grapefruit Seed Extract is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound synthesized from the seeds and pulp of grapefruit. It is an extremely potent and effective broad-spectrum bactericide, fungicide, antiviral and antiparasitic compound.” He recommends it topically on the nipple and on the baby’s bottom if affected by yeast. He recommends use of GSE in the laundry and as a surface cleaner to kill yeast.

If the above simple home remedies do not bring relief, contact an IBCLC who will help you work with your healthcare provider. Treatment will generally be needed for the baby even if there are no white patches in the mouth or a diaper rash. Healing necessitates that both the mom and baby are treated simultaneously. An antifungal cream will likely be recommended.

Yeast infections can be very persistent. Using the full course of medication suggested by the health care provider is important. Continuing the home remedies for several weeks after this will help prevent the yeast from reoccurring.

Yeast infections can be painful and discouraging. Angela is an IBCLC and can offer both professional medical help and support with this or any step in your breastfeeding journey.

Please note: If you have a question about a medical matter you should consult your healthcare provider. Do not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your healthcare provider.