Can I take Colace when breastfeeding?

Understanding Colace and Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing constipation during breastfeeding, many new mothers wonder about the safety of using over-the-counter medications like Colace, which contains docusate sodium, a common stool softener. The good news is that Colace is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Safety Profile of Colace
Research indicates that docusate sodium is not well absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, which means that it is unlikely to enter the bloodstream in significant amounts or be transferred to breast milk. This characteristic makes it a suitable option for nursing mothers dealing with constipation.
Moreover, health professionals often recommend stool softeners like Colace because they help alleviate constipation without the risks associated with more potent laxatives. According to various sources, including healthcare guidelines, stool softeners are safe to use while breastfeeding as they do not significantly affect breastfed infants.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
While the general consensus supports the safety of Colace during breastfeeding, it is always prudent for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication. This is particularly important if the constipation is severe or persistent, as a healthcare provider may suggest lifestyle changes or alternative remedies that could be more effective.
Conclusion
In summary, if you’re a breastfeeding mother considering Colace for constipation relief, you can feel reassured that it is typically safe to use. However, as with any medication, it’s best to discuss your specific situation with a healthcare professional to ensure the best care for both you and your baby.

What simple trick empties your bowels immediately?

Try These Tricks for Quick Bowel Movement Stimulation

• Drink coffee. Regarding drinks that make you poop, coffee is probably the first that comes to mind.
• Squat when you poop.
• Use a fiber supplement.
• Take a stimulant laxative.
• Take an osmotic laxative.
• Take a lubricant laxative.
• Try a stool softener.
• Use a suppository.

Is Colace a stool softener or a laxative?

It works by softening the stool, making it easier to have a bowel movement. It belongs to a group of medications called laxatives. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

Does Colace pass through breast milk?

Colace use during breastfeeding
It’s also considered safe to use Colace while breastfeeding. When taken at usual doses, a significant amount of the drug does not pass into breast milk. Children who are breastfed do not experience any negative side effects if their mothers take Colace.

When should you not use Colace?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

1. Nausea or vomiting.
2. Severe constipation.
3. Stomach pain.
4. Sudden change in bowel habit lasting more than 2 weeks.
5. An unusual or allergic reaction to docusate, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
6. Pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
7. Breast-feeding.

How can I help my constipated breastfed baby poop?

Give your baby a warm bath to relax their bowel. Gently massage your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction. Make firm but gentle circular motions from the belly button outwards. Lie your baby on their back and gently move their legs backwards and forwards in a ‘bicycle’ motion.

Does Colace affect breastfed babies?

Docusate and breastfeeding
It’s not known how much docusate gets into breast milk, but it’s only likely to be a tiny amount. It should not cause any side effects in your baby.

What to take for constipation while breastfeeding?

You can try eating more fibre and drinking plenty of fluids. It may also help to do gentle exercise. If diet and lifestyle changes do not work, your doctor or midwife may recommend a laxative, such as lactulose or Fybogel.

Does stool softener affect milk supply?

Stool softeners such as docusate or osmotic laxatives such as lactulose, glycerol or macrogol are safe to use at the recommended doses while breastfeeding.

How much Colace can I take postpartum?

“I encourage my patients to take 100 milligrams of Colace two times immediately following delivery for best results,” she says. Take a laxative if needed. “Bulk-forming laxatives are gentle on your body and include Metamucil, Citrucel and MiraLAX,” says Ross.

What should a breastfeeding mother eat to avoid constipation in a baby?

Constipation while breastfeeding remedies
Here are some tips to prevent and treat constipation: Add more fiber to their diet if your baby’s started solid foods, Switch from rice cereal to barley, which has more fiber. When you start introducing fruits and vegetables, try high-fiber ones like pureed prunes and peas.