Can you go under general anesthesia while breastfeeding?

Understanding General Anesthesia and Breastfeeding
The question of whether a breastfeeding mother can safely undergo general anesthesia is a common concern among new parents. The good news is that, according to recent insights from medical professionals, breastfeeding and anesthesia are generally compatible. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind regarding the timing and management of breastfeeding around the time of surgery.
Safety of Anesthesia During Breastfeeding
Most anesthetic medications are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Experts suggest that breastfeeding can typically resume as soon as the mother has recovered from anesthesia and feels well enough to nurse. This means that, in many cases, there is no need for an extended period of abstaining from breastfeeding after receiving anesthesia.
Historically, the advice to “pump and dump” breast milk for a certain period post-anesthesia was common. This practice was intended to prevent any potential transfer of medications to the infant. However, this guidance is now seen as somewhat outdated. Current reviews indicate that while caution is warranted, the actual risk of significant medication transfer through breast milk is low.
Timing Considerations
Before undergoing anesthesia, it is generally recommended that breastfeeding mothers stop nursing for a few hours prior to the procedure. Most guidelines suggest a fasting period of about three to four hours, meaning that mothers should finish breastfeeding within this timeframe before anesthesia is administered. This precaution helps ensure that the infant is not exposed to any residual anesthetic agents.
Post-Anesthesia Breastfeeding
After the procedure, the key factor is the mother’s recovery. Once she is alert and feeling well, she can typically resume breastfeeding. The University of Rochester Medical Center emphasizes that most anesthetic medications clear from the body relatively quickly, allowing for a safe return to breastfeeding shortly after recovery.
Conclusion
In summary, while undergoing general anesthesia as a breastfeeding mother may raise concerns, the consensus among healthcare professionals is reassuring. Breastfeeding and anesthesia are not mutually exclusive, and with proper timing and management, mothers can safely navigate their surgical needs without compromising their ability to breastfeed. Always consult with healthcare providers for personalized advice and to discuss any specific medications or procedures that may be involved.

Is general anesthesia safe while breastfeeding?

All anesthetic and analgesic drugs can transfer into breastmilk; however, only small amounts are present in very low concentrations which are considered clinically insignificant.

Can you get a cavity filled while breastfeeding?

Fillings. There is no reason to avoid inserting or replacing fillings during breastfeeding. One report suggests that it is prudent to avoid unnecessary removal of fillings during pregnancy or lactation (Barreguard 1995).

Do I have to pump and dump after anesthesia?

Doctors, nurses, and midwives often inform mothers to “pump and dump” their breast milk for 24 hours after receiving anesthesia to avoid passing medications to the infant. This advice, though cautious, is probably outdated.

Does local anesthesia pass through breast milk?

It is entirely safe to breast feed after local anaesthetic. The amount of lidocaine that will be present in your breast milk is too small to be harmful to the baby. If you wish to breast feed from that breast you may decide to express and throw away the milk from that breast for up to 12 hours after the procedure.

Can you get surgery while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding can continue even if you need to have an operation. Here are some things to think about as you plan to keep breastfeeding as much as possible. Before your surgery, pump enough breast milk for at least 1 or 2 feedings.

Does sedation affect breastfeeding?

No concerns have been reported about breastfed babies experiencing side effects after their mother has been sedated with midazolam, but as a precaution it is sensible to monitor your child for drowsiness, slowed breathing rate and poor feeding, especially if they are under 6 weeks old.

Does general anesthesia affect baby?

Prolonged (> 3 hours) or repeated use of general anesthetic and sedation drugs in pregnant women during their third trimester may affect the development of children’s brains. This may also affect children under the age of 3, according to the FDA safety announcement.

When to stop breastfeeding before anesthesia?

If you are breastfeeding, you can breastfeed your baby until 4 hours before the scheduled time to come to the hospital.

How long do I wait to breastfeed after anesthesia?

You can breastfeed or pump after you have this type of anesthesia as soon as you are awake and alert. For a single dose of midazolam, no interruption of breastfeeding is required. If the baby is newborn or premature, and you need more than a single dose of midazolam, we may recommend a pause in breastfeeding.

Is dental anesthesia safe while breastfeeding?

Many controlled studies examine the effects of local anesthesia on breastfeeding mothers, but the consensus is that moms can resume breastfeeding right after receiving local anesthesia.