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Can I use icy hot while breastfeeding?

Can I Use Icy Hot While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing pain during breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety of using topical analgesics like Icy Hot. This popular pain relief product, known for its cooling and warming sensations, is often sought after for muscle aches and joint pain. But is it safe to use while nursing?
Safety of Icy Hot During Breastfeeding
The consensus among health professionals is that Icy Hot is generally safe to use while breastfeeding. The active ingredients in Icy Hot, primarily menthol and methyl salicylate, are considered safe when applied topically. These compounds work by providing a cooling sensation followed by warmth, which can help alleviate pain without significant systemic absorption into the bloodstream.
However, it is crucial to use the product as directed. Typically, Icy Hot can be applied three to four times a day, but mothers should ensure that they are using it in moderation.
Precautions to Consider
While the topical application of Icy Hot is deemed safe, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. It is advisable to avoid applying the product directly on or near the breasts, especially if breastfeeding immediately after application. This is to prevent any potential transfer of the product to the infant, which could cause irritation or discomfort.
Additionally, consulting with a healthcare provider before using Icy Hot or any new medication is always a prudent step. This is particularly important if you have any underlying health conditions or if you are using other medications that might interact with topical treatments.
Conclusion
In summary, Icy Hot can be a viable option for pain relief for breastfeeding mothers, provided it is used correctly and with caution. By following application guidelines and taking necessary precautions, mothers can manage their discomfort without compromising their breastfeeding journey. Always remember, when in doubt, a quick chat with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation.

What happens if you use Icy Hot while pregnant?

Still, Icy Hot isn’t considered a restricted substance, and it’s generally regarded as safe to use throughout your pregnancy. The conflict around Icy Hot is that its ingredients can be absorbed into your bloodstream and pass into the fetus.

How much menthol is too much for breastfeeding?

It’s a common belief that menthol or peppermint can reduce milk supply when breastfeeding. But we don’t have any studies to back this theory up. And it’s unlikely that the amount of menthol in these products would be enough to affect your breast milk supply.

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

Is Icy Hot safe to use during pregnancy?

There’s little research on the safety of using Icy Hot or similar products while pregnant, causing some experts to advise against it.

What pain relief cream is safe while breastfeeding?

Topical anti-inflammatory creams/ointments/gels e.g. ibuprofen (Ibugel®), Diclofenac (Voltarol Emulgel®) Mentholatum (Deep Heat®) Sunscreen products can be applied liberally as necessary.

How to treat a cold sore while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding and cold sores
Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.

Can I use Biofreeze while breastfeeding?

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Is it safe to put icy hot on your nipples?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe to use IcyHot Pro Pain Relief if you have sensitive skin. Do not use this medicine on a baby or child without your doctor’s advice. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you breastfeed, avoid applying this medicine to your nipple area.

Can I use icy hot if I am breastfeeding?

It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Is menthol safe for breastfeeding?

Most lozenges with menthol are safe for nursing moms because very little makes it into the milk supply. However, menthol is derived from peppermint oil, which may reduce milk supply in some women. It’s probably best to avoid consuming large amounts of peppermint or menthol cough drops.

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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