The same yeast fungus that can cause vaginal thrush, Candida albicans, is also found in the mouth, and babies and children up to the age of two are particularly likely to get oral thrush.

It's most common in babies of about a month old, and it happens because young babies' immune systems aren't yet mature, so they're more susceptible to infection. They're also more at risk when they've had antibiotic treatment, as this lowers the amount of healthy bacteria in the mouth, allowing the yeast fungus to overgrow.

Most babies with oral thrush seem untroubled by the condition, but some may be reluctant to feed if it's causing them any soreness.

Sometimes babies can pass oral thrush to their moms through breastfeeding. This can cause nipples to become sore and if left untreated, could make feeding painful.

What are the symptoms of Thrush - Babies?

If your baby has oral thrush, you'll notice white spots or patches inside his mouth. The main symptom is one or more white or yellowish spots or patches inside your baby's mouth. This resembles cottage cheese and is easily rubbed off, although there will be sore-looking patches underneath.

Some babies can have oral thrush without any visible symptoms, but you might notice your baby fusses during feeds, fails to gain enough weight or dribbles a creamy-colored drool. Check with your doctor or health visitor to get a diagnosis.

What are the treatments and remedies of Thrush - Babies?

Most cases clear up on their own within a few days, but if your doctor does prescribe anything for your baby it will probably be miconazole gel, which is an antifungal preparation. This is applied directly on to the patches inside your baby's mouth using a clean finger.

Nystatin liquid is sometimes prescribed if the miconazole gel doesn't clear the symptoms, or for babies less than four months old. Nystatin comes as drops that you apply to the patches.

This guide

This article is not meant to substitute medical advice provided by a practicing medical professional - if you have any concerns, contact your physician immediately.