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Can I breastfeed after taking Plan B?

Can I Breastfeed After Taking Plan B?
The question of whether it is safe to breastfeed after taking Plan B, a form of emergency contraception, is one that many nursing mothers may ponder. The good news is that experts agree it is safe to take Plan B while breastfeeding. This reassurance comes from various health sources and professionals who emphasize that the medication does not pose a significant risk to nursing infants.
Understanding Plan B and Its Effects
Plan B contains levonorgestrel, a hormone that works primarily by preventing ovulation. When taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, it can effectively reduce the chance of pregnancy. While some women may experience side effects such as irregular bleeding after taking Plan B, these effects are generally mild and do not interfere with breastfeeding.
Safety for Nursing Infants
Research indicates that levonorgestrel is excreted in breast milk in very small amounts. The concentrations are so low that they are unlikely to affect a breastfeeding baby. The Breastfeeding Network and other health organizations have confirmed that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh any potential risks associated with the hormone present in Plan B.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
While it is safe to breastfeed after taking Plan B, healthcare providers often recommend a few precautions. For instance, if a mother is concerned about the timing of breastfeeding after taking the medication, she might choose to pump and discard her milk for a short period, although this is not strictly necessary. The key is to ensure that both the mother and the baby remain healthy and comfortable during this time.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding after taking Plan B is considered safe. Nursing mothers can feel confident in their ability to continue breastfeeding without significant concern for their infant’s health. However, as with any medical decision, it is always wise to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any specific concerns.

What are the chances of having a baby after taking Plan B?

Effectiveness. Emergency contraception pills reduce the risk of pregnancy by approximately 75%. In other words, out of 100 women who have unprotected intercourse mid-cycle, approximately 8 would become pregnant. With use of emergency contraception pills, only 2 of the 100 would become pregnant.

What should I avoid after taking Plan B?

There are certain medications and herbal supplements that you should avoid after taking Plan B, as they may lower the efficacy of the drug. These include: Barbiturates (including primidone) Bosentan.

Does cramping after Plan B mean it’s working?

Cramping after Plan B does not necessarily mean it is working. Taking Plan B causes hormone fluctuations which can cause side effects.

How long does it take for the morning-after pill to get out of your system?

The morning-after pill, a go-to for unexpected contraception hiccups, typically remains active in your system for a few days, gradually dissipating within 24 to 48 hours post-consumption. It offers a temporary solution for unplanned situations, such as unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

What can cause Plan B to fail?

The most common reason for failure is timing. It’s always best to take emergency contraception as soon as possible. Other possible reasons for failure include: Vomiting within two hours of taking it.

How does Plan B affect your breast?

Breast tenderness: Within a few hours after taking Plan B (should resolve within a day or two) Late period: During your next period, but shouldn’t affect any periods after that.

How long does Plan B stay in the system?

Plan B stays in your system for about 5–6 days, depending on the type. Although there isn’t a limit on taking it multiple times, extra doses won’t make it more effective, and they can cause some unpleasant side effects.

What can I drink to prevent pregnancy after unprotected?

Ginger can induce a period and prevent pregnancy. You can consume simple ginger tea as a remedy. Add crushed or grated ginger to boiling water. After 5 minutes, strain the mixture and it is ready to drink.

Does Plan B pass through breast milk?

After a single 1.5mg dose, the total amount of drug passing into the breastmilk over the next 3 days is only about 0.1% of the mother’s dose. 5 Experts agree that this small amount of hormone is not significant and women are encouraged to continue breastfeeding without interruption.

Can I take the abortion pill while breastfeeding?

Limited data suggest that the levels of mifepristone in milk are negligible when single doses of up to 600mg have been administered. Breastfeeding can continue in an uninterrupted manner during medical termination. No side effects have been reported for infants after exposure to mifepristone via breast milk.

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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