Thrush | Right Decisions

Please update your RDS mobile app to version 4.7.1

We are pleased to advise that deep linking capability, enabling users to directly download individual mobile toolkits, has now been released on the RDS mobile app. When you install the update, you will see that each toolkit has a small QR code icon the header area beside the search icon – see screenshot below. Clicking on this icon will open up a window with a full-size QR code and the alternative of a short URL for sharing with users. Instructions are provided.

You may need to actively install the update to install RDS app version 4.7.1 to see this improvement. Installing this update is also strongly recommended to get the full benefits of the new contingency arrangements – specifically, that if the RDS website should fail, you will still be able to download new mobile app toolkits.

To check your current RDS version, click on the three dots bottom right of the RDS app screen. This takes you to a “More” page where you will see the version number. To install latest updates:

On iPhones – go to the Apple store, click on your profile icon top right, scroll down to see the apps waiting to be updated and update the RDS app.

On Android phones – these can vary, but try going to the Google Play store, click on your profile icon top right, click on “Manage apps and device”, select and update the RDS app.

Please get in touch with ann.wales3@nhs.scot with any questions.

Thrush is a controversial diagnosis as a cause of feeding issues.

Candida albicans appears as white patches on the tongue and inside of the mouth, however some young babies naturally have a white tongue. Milk can also cause a white coating - if this can be wiped off it is not thrush.

Mothers present with bilateral burning pain after feeds, itching, hypersensitivity and a shiny appearance and colour change to the nipples. Typically this follows a period of pain free breastfeeding.

It is essential to check the baby is well attached prior to diagnosing thrush (see referral details above for infant feeding team)

Swab the mother’s nipples and baby’s mouth to confirm thrush.

First line treatment is with topical Miconazole 2% CREAM applied sparingly to mother’s nipples after every feed (do not wash off) and Miconazole GEL to baby’s mouth four times per day. See The Breastfeeding Network for further information on prescribing and what to do if symptoms persist.