Can a breastfeeding mom take aspirin?

Can a Breastfeeding Mom Take Aspirin?
The question of whether a breastfeeding mother can safely take aspirin is a nuanced one, with several factors to consider. While aspirin is a common over-the-counter medication used for pain relief and anti-inflammatory purposes, its use during breastfeeding is generally approached with caution.
Aspirin and Breast Milk Transfer
Research indicates that aspirin, particularly in higher doses, can be excreted into breast milk. After ingestion, salicylic acid, the active component of aspirin, is present in breast milk, and its concentration increases with higher maternal doses. For instance, long-term or high-dose use of aspirin has been linked to adverse effects in breastfed infants, including metabolic acidosis. This raises concerns about the potential risks associated with aspirin use during lactation.
Recommendations from Health Authorities
Health organizations typically advise against the use of aspirin while breastfeeding, especially at analgesic doses (such as 600 mg four times a day). The National Health Service (NHS) states that while aspirin is not usually recommended, it may be prescribed if other pain relief options are unsuitable. This suggests that healthcare providers may consider the specific circumstances of the mother and her health needs before making a recommendation.
Risks of Reye’s Syndrome
One of the significant concerns with aspirin use in children is the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can cause liver and brain damage. This risk has led to a general caution regarding aspirin use in breastfeeding mothers, as the medication can potentially affect infants. The association with Reye’s syndrome is particularly critical when considering the health of a breastfeeding child, as infants are more vulnerable to the effects of medications passed through breast milk.
Low Dose Aspirin Considerations
Interestingly, low-dose aspirin (typically 81 mg) is sometimes considered safer for breastfeeding mothers. Studies suggest that occasional use of low-dose aspirin is unlikely to pose significant risks to a breastfeeding infant. However, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before taking any medication, including low-dose aspirin, to ensure it aligns with their health needs and circumstances.
Conclusion
In summary, while occasional low-dose aspirin may be acceptable for breastfeeding mothers, regular or high doses are generally not recommended due to the potential risks to the infant, including the transfer of salicylic acid into breast milk and the associated risk of Reye’s syndrome. Mothers should always seek personalized medical advice from their healthcare providers to navigate their specific health situations safely.

Does aspirin increase breast milk?

Summary of Use during Lactation
After aspirin ingestion, salicylic acid is excreted into breastmilk, with higher doses resulting in disproportionately higher milk levels.

What not to do while breastfeeding?

It’s best to avoid alcohol while you are breastfeeding. Alcohol can enter your breast milk, and it can cause you to make less milk. If you choose to drink, you may have a single alcoholic drink once in a while if your baby’s breastfeeding routine is well established—and your baby is at least 3 months old.

Is aspirin better than ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

While ibuprofen has been proven safe for moms and babies while breastfeeding, other medications are not the same. For instance, breastfeeding women should avoid aspirin and Pepto Bismol, as well as Aleve. Aspirin has a blood-thinning effect and can increase the risk of bleeding for your baby.

What medicine to avoid 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 does aspirin do nursing?

Aspirin passes into breast milk. When used in large amounts (such as to treat pain or fever), it may harm a nursing infant and breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. However, low-dose aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention may be used if directed by your doctor.

How does aspirin affect baby?

During the first trimester, higher doses of aspirin may raise the risk of pregnancy loss. Taking a high dose also could raise the risk of a baby having medical conditions present at birth, called congenital defects.

What medications dry up milk supply?

What medications do you think have been found to decrease milk supply? Choose 1 or more:

• Epinephrine.
• Labetolol.
• High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol)
• Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Testosterone.
• Estrogen.
• Methylergonovine (Methergine)
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)

Does aspirin affect baby?

Taking higher doses of aspirin may have risks depending on the stage of pregnancy: First trimester. During the first trimester, higher doses of aspirin may raise the risk of pregnancy loss. Taking a high dose also could raise the risk of a baby having medical conditions present at birth, called congenital defects.

What pain reliever is ok for breastfeeding?

Most over-the-counter (also called OTC) medicine, like pain relievers and cold medicine, are OK to take when you’re breastfeeding. For example, OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) are safe to use when breastfeeding.

How much aspirin can I take while breastfeeding?

Occasional use of low dose aspirin is not expected to increase risks to a breastfeeding infant. Regular strength aspirin (over 325 mg) is not preferred during breastfeeding. More information about regular strength aspirin can be found in our fact sheet: https://mothertobaby.org/fact-sheets/regular-strength-aspirin/.