Dear Val,

I must say that the mother you describe should be looked at by a
dermatologist. She may indeed have thrush, which sometimes presents with
pustules topically,  and may feel much better with treatment.  I might also
like to respectfully and gently address the idea of baby being **addicted**
to breast. The very word *addiction* , to me, carries a negative
connotation, as if there is something inherently wrong. .I recall when my
first child was insisting on nursing every 2 hours (oh horrors)!  and the
nurse told me that she should not be nursing more often than that, because
she then would be taking advantage of me.  I felt so awful at this thought,
and her attitude engendered resentment in me, when in fact, this was an easy
baby.. the warm up act for the next child, who was a real love *and* a
challenge...so..................

I guess what I am saying is that I would have the mom checked for yeast.
You may wish to get her treated symptomatically..and if she wants to wean ,
that is of course her choice, but the problem should be treated anyway.

Interesting how language affects us all..a la Diane Weissinger's article
"Watch Your Language!!!"......

Warmly, and thoughtfully,

Kathleen
Kathleen B. Bruce, BSN, IBCLC co-owner Lactnet,TLC, Indep. Consultant
http://together.net/~kbruce/kbbhome.html
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