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Can you breastfeed with trichomoniasis?

Understanding Trichomoniasis and Breastfeeding
Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the protozoan parasite *Trichomonas vaginalis*, is a common concern among women of reproductive age, affecting approximately 10 to 25% of this population. For new mothers who are breastfeeding, the question of whether it is safe to continue nursing while infected with trichomoniasis is crucial.
Safety of Breastfeeding with Trichomoniasis
According to recent findings, breastfeeding while infected with trichomoniasis is generally considered safe. Research indicates that breast milk contains anti-protozoal factors that can effectively destroy the *Trichomonas vaginalis* parasite. This means that the risk of transmitting the infection to the infant through breast milk is negligible.
Moreover, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations have not reported any cases of trichomoniasis transmission through breastfeeding. This is reassuring for mothers who may be concerned about the implications of their infection on their nursing infants.
Implications for Maternal Health
While breastfeeding is safe, it is essential for mothers to seek treatment for trichomoniasis. The infection can lead to various complications, particularly during pregnancy, such as preterm delivery and low birth weight. Addressing the infection not only benefits the mother’s health but also ensures a healthier environment for the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, mothers diagnosed with trichomoniasis can continue to breastfeed without fear of transmitting the infection to their babies. However, it is vital for these mothers to pursue appropriate medical treatment to mitigate any potential health risks associated with the infection. As always, consulting with healthcare providers for personalized advice and treatment options is recommended.

Is it safe to breastfeed while taking metronidazole?

It’s OK to take metronidazole while you’re breastfeeding. When metronidazole is taken by mouth, as suppositories, or injected, it passes into breast milk in fairly small amounts. It’s unlikely to cause side effects in your baby, but a few babies have had diarrhoea.

What illnesses should you not breastfeed?

When Should I Not Breastfeed My Baby?

  • If the mother has been infected with HIV or has AIDS.
  • Many medications taken by the mother may pass onto the baby via breast milk.
  • Mothers with cancer who are taking cancer chemotherapy medications also cannot breastfeed their babies.

Which STD can a mother not breastfeed with?

Can I breastfeed if I have an STI?

  • If you have HIV, do not breastfeed.
  • If you have chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HPV, you can breastfeed your baby.
  • If you have trichomoniasis, you can take the antibiotic metronidazole if you are breastfeeding.

Can trichomoniasis affect babies?

Conclusions: Trichomoniasis in pregnant women is associated with preterm delivery, pre-labour rupture of membranes, and low birth weight. Rigorous studies are needed to determine the impact of universal trichomoniasis screening and treatment during pregnancy on reducing perinatal morbidity.

Can trichomoniasis be passed through breast milk?

The organism does not seem to cause significant disease in a healthy infant. No documentation exists on transmission of T. vaginalis via breast milk. The difficulty encountered with maternal infection during lactation stems from metronidazole (Flagyl), the drug of choice, being contraindicated for infants.

Is Trichomonas a serious STD?

Untreated trich increases your risk of becoming infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) if you’re exposed to the virus. Untreated HIV can lead to AIDS. Women and people AFAB who have trich and HIV are more likely to pass both diseases on to their partners.

What STD can make you lose a baby?

Chlamydia: Chlamydia may cause an increased risk of miscarriage and preterm delivery. Newborns who are exposed can get severe eye infections and pneumonia.

What are the two worst symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Trichomoniasis infection in women may be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Vaginal discharge is the main symptom that women may present, and can be accompanied by itch, pain when urinating and pain during intercourse. In men, most infections are asymptomatic but some experience penile discharge or pain when urinating.

What naturally kills trichomoniasis?

Popular home remedies for trichomoniasis may include:

  • Myrrh3.
  • Pomegranate juice or extract4.
  • Garlic4.
  • Resveratrol (antioxidant found in grapes, berries, red wine, and peanuts)
  • Basil5.
  • Other herbs such as black cumin extract6.

What not to do when you have trichomoniasis?

You should avoid having sex while you’re being treated for trichomoniasis, as you may become reinfected. If you were prescribed a single dose of antibiotics, you need to avoid having sex for 7 days after taking the medicine.

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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