postnatal rash

[Snowfalls108]

Hi there,
Not sure which topic to put this in.

My baby was born 5 and half weeks ago, and we are breast feeding well (he's growing very quickly!) A week ago I got a rash developing on my breasts. Last Thursday I went to the doctor who thought it was Thrush and prescribed me with Canestan. I wasn't convinced as I didn't have any rash on my nipples, and my baby hadn't been affected at all. So on Sunday I went back to the doctor who prescribed me with a Hydrocortison cream and some antibiotics saying I was having an allergic reaction to something. Since then the rash has spread and spread and is now covering my arms, legs and back. It is so so itchy and is driving me crazy.
From searchs on line there are lots of people who mention having a rash like this but no one seems sure how to solve it. I've got a doctors appointment booked for this afternoon, but the doc is not a specialist in post natal care and I'd like to go in with some ideas for him. Anyone any thoughts?
Thanks so much,

[nowwearefour]

Hi

I had this after dd1. It was awful. i did find out what it was called and will look it up and post again for you. it last exactly 7 weeks as the GP said it would. there was nothing that could be done about it. much sympathies. keep up the breastfeeding though as this will pass i promise. it affects 50% of those who get it in their second post natal period too but i was lucky enough not to be affected.

[nowwearefour]

I think it is PUPPP. It seems to be most common during pregnancy but it can occur post natally. I definitely had it and it sounds as if you might well have too. Horrible but it does pass.

[Snowfalls108]

Thanks nowwearefour. The doctor has prescribed me some antihistamine that he says are ok when breastfeeding and some steroid cream - so hopefully that will calm it down a bit. Ah the glamour of having a baby!

[nowwearefour]

really hope you cope with it and that the stuff helps you. it did drive me insane but i had actually forgotten all about it until your post so shows it isnt that significant in the grand scheme of things. all the best.

[monkeypinkmonkey]

Ah I had this also after ds. It was soooo itchy and it took me seeing GP in practice who specialises in demeratology (sp?) to diagnoise. However like nowwearefour I kind of forgot about it. I do sympathise with you but just to let you know it will soon disappear and you can stop itching!