Can you breastfeed while using boric acid suppositories?

Understanding Boric Acid Suppositories and Breastfeeding
The use of boric acid suppositories during breastfeeding is a topic that raises concerns among nursing mothers, particularly regarding safety for both the mother and the infant. Boric acid is commonly used to treat various vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections, by helping to restore the natural pH balance in the vagina.
Safety Considerations
According to recent expert opinions, boric acid is generally considered safe for short-term use while breastfeeding. The primary concern arises from the potential for boric acid to be absorbed into the bloodstream, which could theoretically affect breast milk. However, studies indicate that the levels of boric acid that might enter breast milk are minimal and unlikely to pose a risk to a nursing infant.
Mothers who have used boric acid suppositories while breastfeeding report that they have not experienced adverse effects on their babies. For instance, one mother noted her experience using the suppositories while nursing her two-month-old without any reported issues. Nonetheless, it is crucial for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new treatment, including boric acid, to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs.
Recommendations for Use
If a healthcare provider prescribes boric acid suppositories, it is advisable to follow their instructions closely. The suppositories are typically inserted at night, allowing for minimal disruption during the day when breastfeeding. This timing can help reduce any potential exposure during feeding times.
While short-term use is deemed safe, long-term use of boric acid is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to the potential for cumulative effects that could impact the infant. Therefore, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek further medical advice rather than relying on prolonged use of boric acid.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can use boric acid suppositories under medical guidance, particularly for treating conditions like BV. The consensus among health experts is that short-term use is safe, but ongoing monitoring and consultation with healthcare providers are crucial to ensure the well-being of both mother and child. As always, individual circumstances may vary, so personalized medical advice is paramount.

What can I use for BV while breastfeeding?

For some infections (e.g., bacterial vaginosis, urogenital trichomoniasis, or giardiasis), doses of 2g metronidazole are licensed, either as a single dose, or daily for a three-day course. Breastfeeding may continue during treatment, but infant monitoring is required.

Can I pass BV to my baby?

There is no indication that BV affects a woman’s ability to get pregnant. However, BV is associated with certain risks to the fetus, including delivering an infant preterm (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) and delivering an infant with a low birth weight (generally, 5.5 pounds or less).

What can I use for pH balance while breastfeeding?

Over the counter products are available to restore the normal vaginal pH (E.g., Canesbalance Bacterial Vaginosis Gel™, Boots BV Gel™, Balance Activ BV Gel™). These treatments will not affect breastfeeding or supply as they only act locally in the vagina.

Can you use suppositories while breastfeeding?

Hydrocortisone creams, ointments, sprays and suppositories for piles and itchy bottom can be used while breastfeeding, but try to only use them for a short time. It’s not known how much passes into breast milk, but it’s likely to be a tiny amount, and your baby will not be able to absorb much of it into their body.

Should I wear a pad when using boric acid suppositories?

Because of the potential for watery discharge, you may want to wear a panty liner while using boric acid suppositories.

Is it safe to use boric acid suppositories while breastfeeding?

Conclusion. Boric acid vaginal suppositories in lactating women are not likely to cause significant harm when limited duration of 7 days and dose of 600 mg daily. Boric acid may be considered for up to 21 days with breastmilk modification of half mom’s milk and half supplemental formula or donated breastmilk.

Is guaifenesin safe for breastfeeding?

The expectorant guaifenesin and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan are often found together in products like Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM. Both of these medications have been used while breastfeeding. Small, occasional doses of antihistamines are acceptable while nursing.

Can I use boric acid suppositories while pregnant?

Boric acid is a white, crystalline chemical substance that has antifungal and antiviral properties. If you are pregnant, do not use vaginal boric acid treatment. You can make your own boric acid suppositories by filling size 0 gelatin capsules with boric acid (about 600 mg).

When should you not use boric acid suppositories?

Stop using boric acid suppositories and seek medical advice if they cause severe discomfort. Boric acid should not be used during pregnancy — it’s toxic to the developing fetus. Boric acid causes irritation to open wounds in and around the vagina and should not be used in such cases.

Can a mother pass bacterial infection through breast milk?

In most maternal viral infections, breast milk is not an important mode of transmission, and continuation of breastfeeding is in the best interest of the infant and mother (see Tables 2 and 3). Maternal bacterial infections rarely are complicated by transmission of infection to their infants through breast milk.