Breastfeeding and Psoriasis: What’s Safe and How to Get Relief

Feeding Time Became a Painful Struggle

Sofia had waited nine months to meet her baby, and breastfeeding felt like the most natural next step. But just days into nursing, her psoriasis flared around her nipples. Red, cracked skin made every latch painful. Her regular creams were off-limits, and she started wondering if she could even continue nursing.

"I didn’t want to stop breastfeeding," she said. "But I also didn’t know what was safe."

If you're in the same spot, new baby in your arms, skin flaring, and unsure how to care for both. This guide is for you. It answers common questions about breastfeeding with psoriasis and provides tips to help you protect both your skin and your nursing journey.

This article is for educational purposes only. Always consult your dermatologist, OB-GYN, or pediatrician before starting or stopping any treatment while breastfeeding.

Can You Breastfeed with Psoriasis?

The good news: yes, you can breastfeed if you have psoriasis. The condition doesn’t affect your ability to produce milk, and psoriasis itself isn’t contagious or harmful to your baby.

However, hormonal changes after birth can trigger flare-ups, especially around sensitive areas like the breasts. Combine that with stress, sleep deprivation, and constant nursing and it can feel overwhelming.

If you're dealing with cracked or inflamed skin around your nipples, it may not just be from nursing trauma. Psoriasis lesions may also be contributing to the pain. The important thing is to know you're not alone and help is available.

Psoriasis Symptoms That Can Affect Breastfeeding

Here are some ways psoriasis might impact nursing:

• Cracked, itchy, or inflamed areolas: Common psoriasis symptoms may occur right where your baby latches.

• Flares from hormonal shifts: The drop in estrogen and progesterone after birth can send your immune system into overdrive.

• Pain or discomfort during feeding: Nursing on inflamed skin can cause burning or stinging sensations.

• Self-consciousness: Some moms feel uncomfortable about visible patches or flakes, especially when breastfeeding in public.

These issues can be physically and emotionally draining. But many of them are manageable with a smart care plan and proper support.

Safe Psoriasis Treatments While Breastfeeding

While pregnancy limits many treatment options, breastfeeding allows for more flexibility. Still, some medications can be absorbed through the skin and into breast milk, especially if applied near the nipple.

✅ Typically Safe Options (with doctor approval):

• Low-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., 1% hydrocortisone): These are generally safe when used in small amounts. Always wipe the area clean before nursing.

• Fragrance-free moisturizers and emollients: Thick, natural creams like petroleum jelly or lanolin are excellent for hydrating and soothing cracked skin.

• Coconut oil or shea butter: Natural oils can ease itching and support healing and are usually safe for baby.

• Phototherapy (Narrowband UVB): This light-based treatment does not affect breast milk and is often used for moderate psoriasis.

Apply any medication after a feeding and wipe clean before the next. This reduces baby’s exposure to any residue.

Treatments and Ingredients to Avoid

Certain medications or topical treatments can pose a risk when breastfeeding, especially if used on or near the breasts.

❌ Avoid or Use Only Under Strict Medical Supervision:

• High-potency topical steroids (e.g., clobetasol): These may be too strong to use near the nipple.

• Coal tar products: These can be irritating and are not recommended for use on or around the breasts.

• Salicylic acid: Absorbed through the skin and potentially unsafe for baby.

• Systemic treatments (e.g., methotrexate, acitretin): These can enter breast milk and are not safe for use while nursing.

When in doubt, show the ingredient list of your product to your OB-GYN or dermatologist for a safety check.

Tips for Managing Breast Psoriasis and Nursing Comfortably

Even if you can't use all your usual treatments, there are steps you can take to reduce discomfort and protect your skin.

✨ Try These Strategies:

• Use a nursing-safe moisturizer after every feed (e.g., lanolin, coconut oil).

• Keep nipples dry between feedings to avoid fungal infections and reduce irritation.

• Use cool compresses after feeds to soothe inflammation.

• Try a nipple shield (under guidance from a lactation consultant) to reduce friction and protect healing skin.

• Wear breathable, cotton bras and avoid pads with plastic linings that trap moisture.

• Switch nursing positions to reduce pressure on affected areas.

The goal is to minimize friction and promote healing, without compromising your breastfeeding routine.

When to Seek Medical Help or Adjust Feeding

It's time to consult your provider if you notice:

• Severe cracks or bleeding that won’t heal

• Signs of infection like warmth, redness, swelling, or pus

• Sharp pain or burning during or after feeds

• Flares spreading rapidly or becoming unmanageable

If breastfeeding becomes too painful, consider talking to your provider or lactation consultant about pumping, supplementing, or switching to formula. Feeding your baby in a way that protects your health and comfort is always a valid choice.

Remember, fed is best. There is no shame in choosing a method that works for your whole family.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Relief and Support

Sofia didn’t want to give up on breastfeeding, and she didn’t have to. With a combination of coconut oil, light therapy, and a gentle skin-care routine, she found a rhythm that worked for both her and her baby.

If you're struggling with psoriasis while breastfeeding, know this: you are not alone, and you have safe options. With medical guidance and a little creativity, it is possible to nourish your baby and care for your skin.

Take it one day at a time. Ask for help when you need it. You deserve care, comfort, and confidence on this journey.

This guide is for educational purposes and should not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Looking for natural relief options designed for psoriasis? Visit www.nopsor-usa.com to explore our herbal-based products.

References

• National Psoriasis Foundation – Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
  Offers guidance on psoriasis management during pregnancy and while nursing.
  🔗 https://www.psoriasis.org/pregnancy-and-breastfeeding/

• La Leche League International – Psoriasis and Breastfeeding
  Covers personal stories and practical tips for managing psoriasis while nursing.
  🔗 https://llli.org/news/psoriasis-and-breastfeeding/