Thrush & Diaper Rash: What Parents Need to Know About Candida Yeast Infections

Candida yeast infections, including thrush and yeast diaper rash, are common in infants. 

While many new parents will encounter Candida infections, they aren’t talked about as often as diaper rash. We put together this primer to help parents understand the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of candida-related infections so they can keep their little ones comfortable and healthy.

Understanding Candida Yeast Infections

Candida albicans, a type of yeast, is naturally present on the skin and in the body. However, under certain conditions, it can overgrow, leading to infections such as thrush in the mouth and yeast diaper rash. 

When an overgrowth of Candida occurs in a baby's mouth, it leads to oral thrush. The yeast can pass through their digestive system and lead to diaper rash, so it’s not uncommon for a baby’s Candida infection to spread.

Babies can also have a yeast diaper rash without having thrush, so it’s important to know how to identify both.

Symptoms of Thrush and Yeast Diaper Rash

The sooner you treat a yeast infection, the better. Here are symptoms to watch out for.

Thrush Symptoms:

• White patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or roof of the mouth.

• Difficulty feeding or fussiness during feeding.

• Red, irritated areas around the lips or at the corners of the mouth.

Yeast Diaper Rash Symptoms vs Normal Diaper Rash Symptoms:

• A yeast diaper rash typically appears on skin folds such as leg creases and around the groin, whereas a normal diaper rash often appears on larger surfaces such as the buttocks.

• Yeast rashes can have several patches throughout the diaper area, while a diaper rash is usually centralized in one location.

• Bumpy, shiny, cracked, or oozing skin with dark reddish or purple coloring are signs of a yeast rash. Regular diaper rashes tend to be red or pink with a dry, scaly, or smooth texture.

If your baby has thrush, keep a close eye on their diaper area for these symptoms.

When both thrush and diaper rash thrush occur simultaneously, they may indicate a more extensive yeast infection in infants. 

Treatment for Thrush and Yeast Diaper Rash

Effective treatment for Candida infections usually involves antifungal medications and maintaining proper hygiene. Here’s how to manage both conditions:

Thrush Treatment:

• An antifungal oral gel or drops prescribed by a healthcare provider is typically used to treat thrush.

• Ensure all feeding utensils, pacifiers, and bottle nipples are sterilized after each use to prevent reinfection.

Diaper Rash Caused by Yeast Treatment:

• Over-the-counter or prescription antifungal creams can help treat yeast infections in the diaper area.

• Keep the diaper area clean and dry by changing diapers frequently and allowing the area to air out when possible.

• Avoid using baby wipes with fragrances or alcohol. Instead, use a gentle cleansing cream that supports the skin microbiome.

Never hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you think your baby may have a yeast infection.