Can a mother with psoriasis breastfeed?

Jun 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My wife has psoriasis, but our child is currently in the breastfeeding stage. Can a mother with psoriasis breastfeed?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Mothers with psoriasis can generally breastfeed. Here are the main reasons: 1. **Psoriasis does not affect breastfeeding**: Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease primarily characterized by red patches and white scales on the skin, but it does not affect the quality of breast milk. Therefore, in most cases, mothers with psoriasis can breastfeed normally. 2. **Special attention to affected skin areas**: If the mother's skin lesions are located on the breast or nipples, it is recommended to暂停 breastfeeding during treatment. Psoriatic lesions may produce scales that can harbor bacteria, which might enter the baby's body through breast milk and negatively affect the baby's health. 3. **Avoid breastfeeding during medication use**: If mothers are undergoing treatment for psoriasis and need to use medications containing hormones, immunosuppressants, or other drugs, they should avoid breastfeeding during the treatment period. The medication components may pass into the breast milk and affect the baby's health. In most cases, mothers with psoriasis can breastfeed, but the decision should be based on the location of the skin lesions and the medications being used. If in doubt, please consult a professional doctor.