Can Breastfeeding Mothers Safely Treat Toenail Fungus?

Can breastfeeding treat nail fungus?

Hello, Dr.
Jiang.
I would like to ask if it is safe to treat nail fungus while I am breastfeeding.
I have heard that some oral medications may affect the baby through breast milk.
Is it possible to use topical treatments instead? I have had my nail fungus for many years, and recently my left big toe has also become infected and is gradually turning into a fungal nail.
I am wondering if there are ways to delay or treat this condition.
Additionally, my mother has had chronic nail fungus (for several decades) and athlete's foot on both her hands and feet.
Are there still treatment options available for her? Thank you for your response! I greatly appreciate it!

Mami, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/01

Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology

My suggestion is to wait until you no longer need to breastfeed before treating your toenail fungus.
There's no need to rush.
Mild cases of onychomycosis can sometimes be treated with topical medications like Loceryl.
More severe cases may require oral antifungal medications, with a treatment course lasting 12 weeks.
Chronic onychomycosis can also be treated.
Wishing you peace, and Jesus loves you.

Reply Date: 2006/09/01

More Info

When it comes to treating toenail fungus (onychomycosis) while breastfeeding, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution. Many oral antifungal medications can indeed pass into breast milk, potentially affecting the nursing infant. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

For breastfeeding mothers, topical antifungal treatments are generally considered safer than oral medications. These topical treatments, such as creams, ointments, or lacquers specifically designed for nail fungus, are less likely to enter the bloodstream in significant amounts and, consequently, are less likely to be transferred to breast milk. However, it is still advisable to discuss the specific topical treatment with your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for use during breastfeeding.

In your case, since you have been dealing with toenail fungus for several years and it has recently progressed to your left big toe, it is essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can assess the severity of your condition and recommend appropriate treatments. They may suggest a combination of topical treatments and lifestyle changes, such as maintaining good foot hygiene, keeping your feet dry, and wearing breathable footwear, which can help manage and potentially improve your condition.

As for your mother’s long-standing fungal infections, both toenail fungus and athlete's foot (tinea pedis) can be challenging to treat, especially if they have been present for many years. Chronic fungal infections often require a more comprehensive treatment approach. For toenail fungus, oral antifungal medications may be necessary, but again, this should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially considering any potential interactions with other medications or health conditions.

In addition to antifungal treatments, it is important for both you and your mother to consider preventive measures. This includes:
1. Foot Hygiene: Regularly washing and thoroughly drying feet, especially between the toes, can help prevent fungal growth.

2. Footwear Choices: Wearing breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks can reduce the risk of fungal infections. Avoiding tight-fitting shoes can also help.

3. Avoiding Shared Spaces: Fungal infections can spread in communal areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Wearing flip-flops in these environments can help reduce the risk.

4. Regular Nail Care: Keeping toenails trimmed and clean can help prevent fungal infections from taking hold.

5. Consulting a Specialist: If the infections persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to see a dermatologist or a podiatrist who specializes in nail and skin conditions.

In summary, while treating toenail fungus during breastfeeding requires careful consideration, topical treatments are generally safer than oral medications. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options. For chronic cases, such as your mother’s, a more comprehensive approach may be necessary, and preventive measures should be emphasized to reduce the risk of recurrence.

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