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Can a breastfeeding mom take Advil?

Can a Breastfeeding Mom Take Advil?
For new mothers navigating the challenges of breastfeeding, the question of medication safety often arises, particularly when it comes to pain relief. One common over-the-counter option is ibuprofen, widely known by its brand name, Advil.
Safety of Ibuprofen While Breastfeeding
The consensus among healthcare professionals is that ibuprofen is safe to take while breastfeeding. Research indicates that the levels of ibuprofen that transfer into breast milk are extremely low, making it a preferred choice for nursing mothers who need analgesic or anti-inflammatory relief.
A study highlighted that women who took 400 mg of ibuprofen twice a day showed no significant traces of the drug in their breast milk, suggesting that it poses minimal risk to infants. This is particularly reassuring for mothers who may be concerned about the potential effects of medications on their breastfeeding babies.
Dosage Considerations
While ibuprofen is deemed safe, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to adhere to the recommended dosage. Taking more than the maximum dose can increase the risk of side effects for both the mother and the child. Therefore, it is advisable to limit the intake of any medications, including ibuprofen, to what is necessary for effective pain management.
Common Uses and Recommendations
Many healthcare providers often prescribe ibuprofen for pain relief following childbirth, indicating its acceptance in medical practice. For mothers experiencing headaches or other discomforts, ibuprofen can be an effective solution without compromising breastfeeding.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can confidently use Advil for pain relief, provided they stick to the recommended dosages. As always, it is wise to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with individual health needs and circumstances.

What can I take for a headache while breastfeeding?

Women with migraine may be concerned about breastfeeding due to fears of exposing the baby to medication. However, many medications can be safely taken during breastfeeding, including acetaminophen (Tylenol), anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), and sumatriptan (Imitrex).

What medications decrease milk supply?

High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol) Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Testosterone. Estrogen.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

  • codeine phosphate.
  • decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
  • some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
  • aspirin for pain relief.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Can you take Advil while pregnant?

In October 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made a recommendation to avoid the use of NSAIDs after week 20 of pregnancy, unless your healthcare provider feels it is necessary. I take ibuprofen.

Which headache medicine is safe during breastfeeding?

Tylenol (acetaminophen): Also known as paracetamol, Tylenol is considered the first-line pain relief treatment for headaches while you’re breastfeeding or pregnant. If this medication alone doesn’t work, it can be combined with other medications.

Is Tylenol better than ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

Summary of Use during Lactation
There is no difference in breastfeeding initiation rate between ibuprofen or acetaminophen alone after vaginal delivery. Amounts in milk are much less than doses usually given to infants. Adverse effects in breastfed infants appear to be rare.

What pain relievers are safe while breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

Is Advil safe to take while breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).

Is Advil the same as ibuprofen?

“Advil” is a brand name for the drug, “ibuprofen“. It also the same drug as “Motrin“. All of these are the same medication, just different names. Advil is an ANTI-INFLAMMATORY.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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