Can I take MiraLAX while breastfeeding?

Understanding MiraLAX and Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing constipation while breastfeeding, many new mothers wonder about the safety of using over-the-counter medications like MiraLAX. This polyethylene glycol-based laxative is commonly used to relieve constipation, but its implications for breastfeeding mothers and their infants are crucial to consider.
Safety Profile of MiraLAX
Research indicates that MiraLAX is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. At normal doses, the medication does not significantly pass into breast milk, which means it is unlikely to cause side effects in a breastfeeding infant. This is supported by a literature review from the American Gastroenterological Association, which categorizes MiraLAX as a low-risk treatment during breastfeeding.
Moreover, stool softeners and laxatives, including MiraLAX, are not absorbed through the intestines to any significant extent, further reducing the likelihood of any adverse effects on breastfed babies. This makes MiraLAX a viable option for mothers seeking relief from constipation without compromising their child’s health.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Despite the reassuring evidence regarding the safety of MiraLAX, it is always prudent for breastfeeding mothers to consult their healthcare provider before starting any new medication, including over-the-counter options like MiraLAX. Individual health circumstances can vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on a mother’s specific situation.
Alternative Remedies
For those who prefer to explore natural remedies, there are several options available for alleviating constipation. Increasing dietary fiber, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity can often help manage constipation effectively without the need for medication.
Conclusion
In summary, MiraLAX is generally regarded as safe for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal risk of affecting breastfed infants. However, as with any medication, it is essential to seek guidance from a healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.

Who Cannot take MiraLAX?

You should not use MiraLAX if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol, or if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from polyethylene glycol 3350.

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 MiraLAX help postpartum?

Many people fear the first bowel movement. If, however, you try not to poop you will find you get constipated and that will be uncomfortable whether you have stitches or not! We recommend using stool softeners until regular bowel movements are reestablished. You can use colace or Miralax.

What can I take for constipation while breastfeeding?

Stimulant laxatives

• Bisacodyl. Show. Preferred choice. Bisacodyl can be used during breastfeeding.
• Docusate. Show. Preferred choice. Docusate can be used during breastfeeding.
• Glycerol suppositories. Show. Preferred choice.
• Senna. Show. Preferred choice.
• Sodium picosulfate. Show. Preferred choice.

What helps with constipation nursing?

The first remedy should be to increase fruit, vegetable and fibre intake, along with additional water consumption. Exercise may also help to relieve symptoms. If you are taking opioid-based pain relief medication (e.g. dihydrocodeine, co-dydramol, tramadol or morphine), this may cause constipation.

What is the preferred laxative while breastfeeding?

Stool softeners such as docusate or osmotic laxatives such as lactulose, glycerol or macrogol are safe to use at the recommended doses while breastfeeding. Stimulant laxatives such as senna or biscodyl may pass into the breast milk and cause diarrhoea in your baby.

How quickly does MiraLAX work?

Miralax usually takes about 1 to 3 days to work. It’s an osmotic laxative, which works by pulling liquid into your stool. This helps make your stool softer and easier to pass. So drinking plenty of fluids while taking Miralax will help it work better.

What are the nursing implications for MiraLAX?

During pregnancy, MiraLAX should be used only when prescribed. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Is MiraLAX safe when breastfeeding?

MiraLAX is a brand-name powder prescribed to help treat constipation. It contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). MiraLAX is safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Is it safe to take MiraLAX while pregnant?

“You can use stool softeners–Miralax and Colace are absolutely pregnancy safe,” Dr. Elborno says. “Because Miralax works by pulling water into the gut, it’s not something that’s affecting you systemically and that’s one of the reasons it’s safe,” she says.