Can I take an emergency pill while breastfeeding?

Can I Take an Emergency Pill While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether breastfeeding mothers can safely take emergency contraception, commonly known as the morning-after pill, is one that many new parents grapple with. The good news is that most emergency contraceptive options are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, but there are important nuances to consider.
Types of Emergency Contraception
There are primarily two types of emergency contraceptive pills: those containing levonorgestrel (like Plan B) and those containing ulipristal acetate (like Ella). Research indicates that both types can be used by breastfeeding mothers, but they may have different implications for breast milk production and timing.
Levonorgestrel and Breastfeeding
Levonorgestrel, found in pills such as Plan B, is generally regarded as safe for breastfeeding mothers. Studies suggest that it does not significantly affect breast milk production or the health of the breastfeeding infant. The amount of levonorgestrel that passes into breast milk is minimal, and it is unlikely to cause harm to the baby. Mothers can continue breastfeeding after taking this type of emergency contraception without concern for adverse effects on their child.
Ulipristal Acetate and Breastfeeding
On the other hand, ulipristal acetate, the active ingredient in Ella, presents a slightly different scenario. While it is also deemed safe, it is recommended that mothers wait a few hours after taking the pill before breastfeeding. This is due to the peak concentration of the drug in breast milk occurring about 1 to 3 hours post-ingestion. Some healthcare providers suggest “pumping and dumping” for one session to minimize the infant’s exposure, although there are no documented complications for babies who breastfeed immediately after the mother has taken this medication.
General Recommendations
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can take emergency contraception without significant risk to their infants. Levonorgestrel is the preferred option due to its safety profile and minimal impact on breast milk. For ulipristal acetate, timing is key; waiting a few hours before breastfeeding can help reduce any potential exposure to the medication.
As always, it is advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare provider to discuss their specific circumstances and any concerns they may have regarding emergency contraception while breastfeeding. This ensures that both the mother’s and the baby’s health are prioritized in any decision-making process.

Can I take an emergency while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage.

Can I take my breastfed baby to the ER with me?

Have a practice ahead of time, and make sure you tell healthcare professionals you are a breastfeeding mum when you’re booked in, and again when you’re admitted,” suggests Sarah. “If your baby is small, they may let you have her with you.

How can I prevent unwanted pregnancy while breastfeeding?

You can start using the shot, implant, Skyla and Mirena IUDs, and some types of birth control pills (called mini-pills) right after giving birth. You may be able to get an implant or IUD in the hospital or at your postpartum checkup. Implants and IUDs are super effective, and prevent pregnancy for several years.

Who should not take Emergen-C?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: use/abuse of alcohol, liver problems, stomach/intestinal problems (such as ulcer, colitis).

How likely are you to get pregnant while breastfeeding?

About 2 out of 100 people who use breastfeeding as birth control get pregnant in the 6 months it can be used after a baby is born. Breastfeeding won’t prevent pregnancy if you feed your baby anything other than breast milk. So if you breastfeed but also use formula, LAM isn’t a great birth control method for you.

Can a breastfeeding mother take emergency pills?

Studies indicate that levonorgestrel does not affect the composition or amount of breastmilk, or the growth and development of the breastfed infant. 6 Levonorgestrel is the same hormone found in the “Mini Pill”, which is considered the oral contraceptive of choice for breastfeeding mothers.

What is the safest birth control while breastfeeding?

It’s thought that estrogen may be at the root of this. If you’d like to use an oral contraceptive, the mini-pill is an option. This pill contains progestin only, so it’s considered to be safer for breastfeeding mothers.

What are the odds of getting pregnant while breastfeeding?

About 2 out of 100 people who use breastfeeding as birth control get pregnant in the 6 months it can be used after a baby is born. Breastfeeding won’t prevent pregnancy if you feed your baby anything other than breast milk. So if you breastfeed but also use formula, LAM isn’t a great birth control method for you.

Can the mini pill affect my baby?

Pregnancy. There is a very small chance that you could become pregnant while taking the mini pill. This is not common. If this happens, there is no evidence that the pill will harm your unborn baby.

Is the mini pill safe while breastfeeding?

The minipill is safe to start any time during breastfeeding. It does not affect the amount of milk produced. You can begin using the minipill right away after giving birth, even if you’re not breastfeeding.