All:

As someone with psoriasis, I'd like to add a few things to the discussion of
psoriasis and breastfeeding.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that manifests itself in the
overproduction of skin cells, producing (generally) plaques of white, shiny,
flaky skin that is red underneath the flaking skin.

Like most autoimmune disorders, it is impacted by pregnancy.  Many people
get at least some relief from autoimmune symptoms during pregnancy.
Rebounding of symptoms in the postpartum period is also common.

Skin damage is one cause of the plaques - for example, I once sat too close
to a campfire for a prolonged period.  While my knees weren't burned (they
were just a little red, no blisters or anything you'd normally even take
note of) psoriasis developed and now flares up there every now and then.

As you are exploring alternative care remedies, remember that psoriasis is
the result of an *overactive* immune system, so avoid strategies that
further stimulate immunity.  Similarly, calendula - often a good choice for
skin repair - is not a good choice in this instance because it encourages
skin growth, which exacerbates the problem.

I have never had aggressive problems with my nipple skin, so I can't speak
to that personally, though I am very careful about positioning that causes
friction.  I liked, in theory, the strategies that encouraged moisturizing
and reducing friction.

One treatment for psorasis is UV treatment - either through a dermatologist
or just through careful sun exposure (avoiding sunburn is paramount - but a
good dose of sun/professional UV exposure provides relief for some and might
help this mom without any concern for the baby).  Also would increase her
vit D levels as well :)  I find it really hard, though, in the postpartum
period in the northeast US to find the right sun at the right time.

I just found this informal poll:  16% of women stopped BF because of
psoriasis by 3 mo, and another 33% by 6 mo.  50% said BF was unaffected:

http://talkpsoriasis.org/showthread.php?28526-breastfeeding-and-steroid-creams

Hope this helps - I'm happy to add more for anyone who is interested.

Jeanette McCulloch
LLL, Ithaca, NY
IBCLC (yeah! just certified)
director, Birthways, Chicago
www.birthwaysinc.com

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