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Causes of Infant Yeast Infections

New mothers are often shocked to discover their precious infant may have a yeast infection. Many associate yeast infections with women, but don't realize infants are highly susceptible. Infant yeast infections are caused by a lack of cleanliness and dryness in the diaper area. They can be transmittal by an infected mother during birth or while breastfeeding, from a lack of bottle and pacifier cleanliness or from antibiotics.

  1. Identification

    • Infant yeast infections are common in the moist regions of the diaper area, including folds in the skin. Many times a yeast infection is mistaken for diaper rash. Infant yeast infections also can occur in the mouth as white patches and sores, known as oral thrush.

    Effects

    • Infant yeast infections can be very painful, resulting in excessive crying and fussiness. Infants who have oral thrush also may have difficulty feeding, sucking and swallowing, in addition to being grumpy, restless and frustrated. Infant yeast infections can lead to severe malnutrition and dehydration if not treated effectively.

    Considerations

    • Infants can get a yeast infection at birth if the mother is infected. Yeast infections can also occur in the cuticles, if the infant sucks his thumb or fingers. Breastfeeding mothers and infants often transmit the infection back and forth if not properly treated.

    Prevention/Treatment

    • Yeast infections can be prevented by changing your infant's diapers every 2 hours and allowing the skin to dry thoroughly before putting on a new diaper. Infants taking antibiotics are more susceptible to yeast infections and should have their diapers changed frequently. Likewise, mothers who are taking antibiotics and breastfeeding should be more vigilant about diaper-changing. Pacifiers should be sterilized regularly to prevent oral thrush.

    Warning

    • Infant yeast infections may be treated with over-the-counter medications such as clotrimazole, miconazole and nystatin, but seek the advice of your pediatrician about dosage and frequency. Contact your pediatrician immediately if your infant develops a fever or a rash that turns into yellow, seeping sores.

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