What should you know about cradle cap yeast infection?

Cradle cap usually causes greasy or dry scales on a baby’s scalp. It is not the same as vaginal thrush and does not describe an infection in an adult’s genital area. Vaginal thrush, also called vulvovaginal candidiasis, is an overgrowth of Candida yeast in the vagina or around the vulva.

Typical thrush symptoms include vaginal itching, soreness, burning, and a thick white discharge that may not have a strong smell. These symptoms can overlap with other causes of irritation, so the label should not be assumed from symptoms alone. A vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, or vulval pain can each have several possible causes.

For a baby with cradle cap, wash the scalp gently with a mild baby shampoo and soften loose scales rather than picking or scratching them. Seek advice before applying medicated creams or oils, especially if the skin is broken or weeping.

For possible vaginal thrush, keep the area dry, avoid scented washes and douching, and choose breathable underwear. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether antifungal treatment for thrush is suitable. Treatment choice can depend on pregnancy, previous episodes, medicines, and whether the symptoms fit thrush.

Arrange medical advice if vaginal symptoms are new, severe, keep returning, or do not improve after appropriate treatment. Seek assessment for foul-smelling or unusual discharge, bleeding outside a period, sores or blisters, fever, lower abdominal pain, or pain when urinating, because these features may need a different evaluation.

For cradle cap, contact a healthcare professional if the scalp becomes very red, swollen, painful, cracked, blistered, or produces fluid, or if the baby seems unwell. Those changes are not typical simple scaling.

Ask: Could these symptoms be thrush or another cause? Do I need an examination or a sample? Which treatment is appropriate if I am pregnant or breastfeeding? What should I do if symptoms return?