Yeast Infections (Candidiasis)

Candidiasis, also known as a yeast infection, is an infection caused by yeast that naturally lives on the skin and in areas like the mouth, diaper region, and vaginal area.

This is common in babies under 3 months old and can affect older infants or toddlers as well, especially after they've taken antibiotics. Antibiotics can upset the natural balance of yeast and bacteria in the body, leading to yeast overgrowth in the warm, moist diaper area.

While it's usually harmless, yeast can also cause an infection when the skin is irritated, or when the environment is warm and humid.

The symptoms of a yeast infection depend on where it appears on your child’s body. On the skin, you might notice a red, itchy rash that can ooze or become pimply, especially in skin folds or around the navel. In girls, yeast infections in the vaginal area can cause itching, redness, and a white or yellow discharge. Boys may develop redness, scaling, or a painful rash on the penis.

If the infection is in the mouth (known as thrush), you might see white patches on your child’s tongue, cheeks, or the roof of their mouth, which can be painful. Cracks at the corners of the mouth or swollen, painful nail beds can also be signs of a yeast infection.

To diagnose candidiasis, our doctor will examine the affected area and might take a small skin sample to look at under a microscope or send for a culture. We can prescribe the appropriate antifungal treatment and may recommend that both you and your baby be treated if you’re breastfeeding, to prevent passing the infection back and forth.

Fortunately, yeast infections are generally curable. To manage a yeast diaper rash, keep the affected area clean and dry. Change diapers frequently, using warm water or a mild cleanser like Cetaphil, and avoid powders or cornstarch. Replace rubber pants with white, cotton ones for toddlers. Apply a medicated or antifungal ointment or cream like Lotrimin thrice daily.

For thrush, a medicated mouthwash or dissolvable lozenges are usually prescribed. In more severe cases, especially in children with weakened immune systems, oral anti-yeast medications may be necessary.

If the rash doesn’t improve after 3 days, or if thrush persists beyond a week, reach out to us for further advice. Proper treatment can take a few weeks, so follow our instructions carefully.