Got a breastfeeding/ lactation question?

Write to: LC Doris Fok c/o Q&A Lactation, MotherNeeds, 141 Lentor Street, Singapore 786838, or fax us at 6456-0031, or email info@motherneeds.com with "Ask LC Doris" as your subject heading.
Please limit your queries/questions to a maximum of 150 words.

Doris will select 2 letters to be answered every month. Selected letters published here win a S$12 gift certificate for purchases at our MotherNeeds online store.

Visit our Archives for breastfeeding topics previously addressed.

Copyright © 2004

Question 1:
Dear Doris,

I have a stubborn itch on my breast, accompanied by a small white spot on my breast. I suspect it is a fungal growth due to the moisture and trapped heat while wearing my breastpads. Occasionally, I experience sharp shooting pains in the nipple (like it's pricked by a needle).

I have been applying a topical fungal cream, Triderm, for 1 week and it has worked well to relieve the itch. However, it has not dissipated the white spot on the skin. I also find it cumbersome and not very effective because I would have to wash it off completely prior to feeding my baby. When washed off, I feel it is counterproductive because the fungal cream is no longer there to do its job. I have vaguely heard about gentian violet, particularly about how it is "safer" for babies that come into contact with it. Would I be suitable for this treatment?

Thank you.
Eleanor Sim

Answer 1:
Dear Eleanor,

Thank you for your question. Triderm is a medication prescribed by a doctor for broad spectrum infections. It covers fungal infections as well. However it needs to be removed before you breastfeed your baby, so please use the PP wash which you can buy from any pharmacy. Ask about how to dilute the solution before use.

If your white spot doesn't resolve within this period, please seek the help of a qualified lactation consultant to determine what to do with it.

Regards,
Doris Fok

Question 2:
Dear Doris,

I am currently breastfeeding my 2-week old baby girl. I have been supplementing her feeds with formula, as I am worried she is not getting enough. She cries, often less than 2 hours of my nursing her, therefore I supplement her feed with formula milk as I feel I do not have enough milk to satisfy her hunger for at least 2 hours.

Is it at all possible for me to return to exclusive breastfeeding (with no formula feeding) at this point? I am currently feeding her about 300ml of formula milk per day. How do I make the gradual switch, or do I eliminate the bottle altogether?

Thank you.
Gwen Wee

Answer 2:
Dear Gwen,

It's not too late to switch to exclusive breastfeeding if you determine in your heart to do so. Just don't be restricted by the time. Instead you should listen to your baby and observe what your baby needs rather than supplement everytime he opens his mouth to seem to suckle. I do not know the details of your situation and how often you breastfeed in a given day. However, it is important to know the basics of how to produce milk.

You produce more milk by simply offering your breasts to your baby everytime he wants to feed. So make sure, it's when he wants to feed that you are offering the breasts. Use your breastfeeding time to relax. It is very tiring fixing the bottle for him as you need to sterilise the bottles and mix the formula for him.

Just keep on breastfeeding. If you need a more detailed and meticulous help, do seek out a lactation consultant to discuss with.

*We regret that only 2 letters will be answered by Doris every month.

Neither the information nor any opinion expressed constitutes a medical consultation or prescription or treatment of a medical or health condition. This column is prepared for general viewing and is published for general information only. It does not have regard to the specific medical or health condition, and the particular needs of any specific person who may receive this information. Persons needing medical attention should seek advice from his/her healthcare practitioner regarding the appropriateness of information discussed or recommended in this column. Should you have a pressing question or issue concerning your medical or health condition, please consult your healthcare practitioner.

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