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Can a breastfeeding mother take norethisterone?

Can a Breastfeeding Mother Take Norethisterone?
The question of whether a breastfeeding mother can safely take norethisterone, a synthetic progestin commonly used for various medical conditions including menstrual disorders and as a contraceptive, is one that many new mothers may ponder. Understanding the implications of medication during lactation is crucial for both maternal health and infant safety.
Safety Profile of Norethisterone During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that norethisterone is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. According to a safety analysis, norethisterone has a score of 1 out of 8 on the DrLact safety scale, which categorizes it as mostly safe for use during lactation. This score suggests that the risks associated with its use are minimal, making it a viable option for mothers who require hormonal treatment.
Pharmacokinetics and Infant Exposure
When a breastfeeding mother takes norethisterone, the medication reaches its peak concentration in breast milk approximately 2 to 4 hours after ingestion. Studies have shown that the serum levels of norethisterone in infants can be about 80% of those found in the mother’s bloodstream. However, despite this significant transfer, no consistent reports of physical or mental defects in infants exposed to norethisterone through breast milk have been documented.
Furthermore, the amount of norethisterone that an infant would ingest through breast milk is relatively low. For instance, one study indicated that the average dose ingested by an infant was only about 0.02% of the maternal dose. This minimal exposure further supports the notion that norethisterone can be safely used by breastfeeding mothers without posing significant risks to their infants.
Considerations and Recommendations
While the evidence suggests that norethisterone is safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication. Individual health circumstances, potential side effects, and the specific needs of both mother and child should be taken into account.
In summary, norethisterone appears to be a safe option for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal risk to infants based on current research. As always, personalized medical advice from a healthcare professional is essential to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and baby.

What can I take for my period while breastfeeding?

Although there is no research to support this suggestion, some nursing parents find it helpful to take a supplement of between 500 mg calcium/250 mg magnesium and 1000 mg calcium/500 mg magnesium for three days before their period until three days after their period starts (Marasco & West; 2020).

What medication is used to delay periods while breastfeeding?

Many mothers take norethisterone to delay periods before holidays or even their wedding. Others use it to stop heavy bleeding and wish to continue to breastfeed. Norethisterone 5mg tablets (Primolut N®, Utovlan®) is often prescribed to delay periods.

What stops your period when breastfeeding?

This is called lactational amenorrhea. Fully breastfeeding means the baby relies completely on breastfeeding for nourishment and for all sucking needs. Frequent nursing inhibits the release of hormones that cause your body to begin the monthly preparations for a new pregnancy.

Can a breastfeeding mother miss her period without being pregnant?

Breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can suppress your period, depending on how frequently you are nursing. You may get a period while breastfeeding, and then not have another one for several months or more, particularly if your baby is nursing exclusively.

Can I delay my period while breastfeeding?

It’s not unusual to skip a period, or even for it to be a few months before your next one. When you start reducing the amount of time you spend breastfeeding, your periods should start to return to their usual routine. You should talk to your doctor about your periods if you are having: changes in their usual pattern.

Can I take norethindrone while breastfeeding?

Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.

Is it safe to use norethisterone while breastfeeding?

If you are breastfeeding, ask your doctor before taking Norethisterone. This medicine hasn’t shown any effects on the milk supply to the infant or the composition of milk in breastfeeding women. However, the dosage and quantities of Norethisterone should be accurate and be taken under expert advice by lactating women.

What medication is not safe for 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.

Who should not take norethindrone?

You should not use norethindrone if you you have: undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, breast cancer, liver disease, or a liver tumor. You may not be able to take norethindrone if you have ever had a heart attack, a stroke, or blood clot. Do not use if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.

Who Cannot take norethisterone?

Find out more about the contraceptive pill. If you’re pregnant, or think that you might be pregnant or are trying to conceive, you shouldn’t take norethisterone. You should also avoid taking norethisterone if you’re breastfeeding.

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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