Skin Changes

I recently gave birth to my son six weeks ago and I am currentlt breast feeding. About two weeks after my son's birth I noticed in the shower that I was having pain in the crack of my buttocks. The skin was red and irratated and it seemed that the actual crack had extended and was spliting a little farther up than before. I began to treat the area with vasaline and neosporin and some of the pain and irritation did subside. However it has been 4 weeks and the area while less irritated is still not healing, I am wondering if you have any insight into what could be causing this and how I should treat it.I have talked to my OBGYN who reffered me to a dermatologist. The dermatologist can not see me until Decemeber which is a long time to wait for an answer to this question.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Probably just inflammation in an area of irritation and pressure.  Using an ointment like vaseline is a good idea, as well as padding the area while seated and avoiding rubbing.

Waiting 3 months to see a dermatologist is too long.  Ask to see a different one, or else call the dermatologist's secretary if there have been any cancellations.  People cancel and fail to show up every day.   Try sounding desperate or demanding.  That's what some of my patients do, and it usually works....

Best.

Dr. Rockoff