Can you have menthol while breastfeeding?

Understanding Menthol Use While Breastfeeding
The question of whether menthol can be safely consumed or used while breastfeeding is one that many nursing mothers may ponder, especially when dealing with common ailments like colds or sore throats. The consensus among health professionals is generally reassuring, but there are important nuances to consider.
Safety of Menthol in Cough Drops and Medications
Menthol is a common ingredient found in various over-the-counter products, including cough drops and topical analgesics. According to health sources, most cough drops containing menthol are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The amounts of menthol that might transfer into breast milk are minimal, and adverse effects on infants are unlikely due to the low relative dose and the body’s first-pass metabolism, which reduces the concentration of substances before they enter systemic circulation.
However, caution is advised. Some studies suggest that menthol, particularly when ingested in larger quantities, may reduce milk supply in some women. This is an important consideration for nursing mothers who are already concerned about maintaining their milk production.
Topical Use of Menthol
When it comes to topical applications, such as mentholated ointments or creams, the situation is somewhat similar. While there is limited data on the excretion of topical menthol into breast milk, it is known that oral ingestion of menthol can lead to detectable levels in human milk. Therefore, while using menthol topically may not pose a significant risk, mothers should still be mindful of the potential for reduced milk supply and monitor their breastfeeding experience closely.
Conclusion
In summary, menthol can generally be used safely while breastfeeding, particularly in the form of cough drops or topical treatments. However, nursing mothers should be aware of the potential for menthol to affect milk supply and should use it judiciously. If there are any concerns or if a mother notices a decrease in milk production, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

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.

Does menthol affect babies?

Avoid using menthol-containing products, such as those added to vaporizers or rubbed on the chest. They can, actually, aggravate a cough. Children over 24 months with a severe cough that interferes with sleep or school may use an OTC cough suppressant; consult your pediatrician first.

Are menthol cough drops ok while pregnant?

That said, there have not been any reports of negative effects on a pregnancy due to menthol use. To be safe, you should talk to your doctor before taking menthol cough drops during pregnancy.

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.

What can you not take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Does menthol pass through breast milk?

The National Institute of Health reports that menthol does enter breast milk in small amounts, but that it’s generally considered safe.

Can I use icy hot if I’m breastfeeding?

You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Are menthol cough drops safe while breastfeeding?

Sore throat sprays, lozenges or cough drops are usually considered safe. Avoid taking large amounts of cough drops containing menthol as this may decrease milk production.

Can I inhale menthol while breastfeeding?

Ointments that contain capsaicin, menthol, benzocaine, or camphor (like Tiger Balm) can be harmful if enough transfers to your baby’s skin or is inhaled. Check with your doctor to find out if there is a prescription or OTC ointment that would be effective for you and safe for your baby.

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.