Are libido supplements safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Libido Supplements During Breastfeeding
The postpartum period can be a challenging time for many women, particularly when it comes to intimacy and sexual desire. Breastfeeding, while a natural and beneficial process, often leads to a decline in libido for various reasons, including hormonal changes, fatigue, and physical discomfort. As some women seek solutions to enhance their sexual desire, the question arises: Are libido supplements safe while breastfeeding?
The Impact of Breastfeeding on Libido
Breastfeeding can significantly affect a woman’s libido. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly the increase in prolactin levels, can suppress sexual desire. Additionally, the physical demands of caring for a newborn, coupled with sleep deprivation, can further diminish interest in sexual activity. Studies indicate that between 40% and 83% of breastfeeding women experience some form of sexual dysfunction, which can lead to feelings of frustration and inadequacy.
Safety Concerns with Libido Supplements
When considering libido supplements during breastfeeding, safety is paramount. Many supplements contain herbal ingredients or compounds that may not have been thoroughly studied for their effects on nursing mothers and their infants. For instance, certain medicinal herbs and supplements, such as soy and flaxseed, are advised against during breastfeeding due to potential risks.
Moreover, the lack of comprehensive research on the safety of libido-enhancing supplements means that their effects on breast milk and, consequently, on the nursing infant remain largely unknown. This uncertainty raises concerns about the potential for adverse effects, making it crucial for breastfeeding mothers to approach these supplements with caution.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For mothers experiencing low libido while breastfeeding, it is advisable to consult healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen. A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice and may suggest alternative methods to enhance libido that are safe during breastfeeding. These could include lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep quality, engaging in physical activity, and fostering emotional intimacy with a partner.
Additionally, some women may find that their libido naturally increases as they transition out of the breastfeeding phase, as hormonal levels stabilize and the demands of caring for a newborn lessen.
Conclusion
In summary, while the desire to enhance libido during breastfeeding is understandable, the safety of libido supplements remains a significant concern. Given the potential risks to both mother and child, it is essential for breastfeeding women to prioritize safety and seek professional guidance before considering any supplements. Emphasizing open communication with healthcare providers can help navigate this sensitive issue, ensuring that both the mother’s health and the baby’s well-being are safeguarded.

Can you increase libido while breastfeeding?

2. Breastfeeding can be sexually fulfilling. When breastfeeding, the body releases oxytocin that relaxes you and contracts the uterus. For many, the contractions create pleasurable sensations and for some, sexual arousal.

Is it safe to take libido pills while pregnant?

Researchers have mainly studied how the medicines work in women who haven’t gone through menopause yet. So the FDA approved both drugs for premenopausal women only. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use either drug.

Can you take maca while breastfeeding?

In addition, some women say that maca affected their menstrual cycles. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use maca as there is not enough information about its safety.

How can I increase my libido while pregnant?

During Pregnancy

1. Include the libido boosting foods in your diet and do away with GMO foods, soy, and sugar.
2. Wear Something Sexy – Whatever that may mean to you.
3. Flirt – There is no way that you will be in the mood without the words and touching that should happen first.
4. Talk about Sex – Keep your partner in the loop.

How long does postpartum libido loss last?

Having a low sex drive is especially common in the initial four to six weeks. Although there’s no “normal” or “right” time period in which to resume sexual activity, most healthcare professionals recommend waiting at least four to six weeks.

Why avoid ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Are libido supplements safe?

Some sexual function supplements may contain potentially dangerous impurities or small amounts of hidden pharmaceutical drugs — like traces of PDE5 inhibitors, medications in the same class that includes prescription erectile dysfunction drugs like Viagra. This can produce dangerous, even life-threatening, reactions.

How to increase libido postpartum?

Tips for getting your sex drive back after baby
Start slowly by touching, kissing, and connecting throughout the day. When you’re able to have sex, use plenty of foreplay (and lube!) to increase desire and readiness. Pleasure yourself. During the postpartum period it’s normal to feel out of touch with your body.

How to increase libido as a mom?

Motherhood & Sex Drive

1. Begin taking daily a B-complex vitamin and vitamin C – both help heal the adrenals.
2. Try to eat poached eggs a few times a week – the yolk helps boost progesterone levels naturally and this can offset higher levels of estrogen that might make you feel less in the mood.