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From:
JACK A RUPP <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Sat, 2 Jan 1999 19:11:11 -0500
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In response to Patricia Bucknell's request for more suggestions about an
intraductal yeast infection, I have several.  A ductal (systemic) yeast
infection will take a great deal of time and discipline to resolve.  However
even if the mother switches to formula, she will still have to deal with the
systemic infection which may manifest itself in other ways throughout her
system - yeast is extremely pervasive!  Diflucan IS the antifungal that will
be most effective, however most pharmacists and "yeast experts" would
suggest a longer course.  In MEDICATIONS AND MOTHERS' MILK, Thomas Hale,
Ph.D, (pg.267) suggests a 400mg. loading dose followed by a daily dose of
200mg. for a minimum of 28 days.  If a relapse occurs, he suggests the
200mg. dose for up to 12 weeks.  (He gives very positive safety remarks on
this drug's use in nursing mothers.)  This is consistent with the opinions
of other health professionals who are knowledgeable about treating systemic
yeast.  A lower dosage may actually set the mother up for a
diflucan-resistant strain of yeast.  Her acidophilus/garlic treatments sound
great, but she may have to tighten up her diet even more.  Many women with
systemic yeast are sensitive also to yeast-containing foods and foods with
any type of fungus or mold - the obvious ones being bread, vinegar and other
condiments, mushrooms, and fruit juices.  Often sugars and yeast are hidden
in foods the mother may be eating disguised under other names.  Check labels
carefully!  She may even need to remove any simple or enriched carbohydrates
from her diet for a few weeks to resolve this, as they are converted into
sugar in her system.  While not much research has been done on ductal yeast,
it would seem that this is the hardest type of yeast to kill because despite
the mother's diet, the yeast is thriving on the sugars in her milk.  So a
very strict diet and supplement schedule is in order in addition to the
diflucan.  I highly recommend THE YEAST CONNECTION by William Crook, M.D.
While he doesn't specifically address yeast in breastfeeding women, a better
understanding of the pervasiveness of this fungus and the treatment options
will be very enlightening to the mother.

Good luck - this was the story of my life for six months and I overcame it
and am still nursing!

Libby Rupp, LLL leader from Ellicott City, MD
(anxiously awaiting a huge ice storm!)

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