As we know many substances which are miss-used or over-used can cause potential problems but I agree totally with the others on the judicial use of gentian violet for thrush. I have had clients who have gone full circle with nystatin, diflucan etc. for weeks and months who then as a last resort turned to applying g.v. once a day for three days resulting in full resolution. All of these mothers said that if they knew about it sooner they would have used it sooner. They were also not put off tremendously by the color or the application. None of these babies experienced mouth ulcers and they actually appeared more comfortable within 24 hrs. I believe mothers should not be denied the information (positive and negative) regarding the use of gentian violet (which I might add is very inexpensive and otc) to help relieve them of this painful problem. Let them decide what is best for their situation instead of making that decision for them i.e. assuming that they won't like the color or they may think it's too messy. Maria Parlapiano RN, IBCLC The Lactation Resource Center, inc. Chatham, NJ