Can you take Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Can You Take Pepto-Bismol While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing digestive discomfort, many new mothers may wonder about the safety of using Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding. This popular over-the-counter medication, primarily used to treat symptoms like diarrhea, heartburn, and upset stomach, contains bismuth subsalicylate, a compound that raises concerns for nursing mothers.
Caution Advised by Experts
The consensus among health professionals is one of caution. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breastfeeding mothers avoid salicylates, including those found in Pepto-Bismol, due to potential risks to the nursing infant. Salicylates can pass into breast milk, and while the exact effects of bismuth subsalicylate on breastfeeding infants are not fully understood, there is a general agreement that it is safer to err on the side of caution.
Potential Risks
While there is limited research specifically addressing the effects of Pepto-Bismol on breastfeeding, the presence of salicylic acid—a component related to aspirin—raises red flags. Salicylic acid is known to have harmful effects on infants when passed through breast milk. Therefore, many experts suggest that nursing mothers should refrain from using Pepto-Bismol until they have completed breastfeeding.
Alternatives and Recommendations
For mothers experiencing digestive issues, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for safer alternatives. There are other medications and remedies that may be more suitable for breastfeeding mothers, such as certain antacids or medications specifically deemed safe for lactation.
In summary, while Pepto-Bismol may provide relief for digestive discomfort, the potential risks associated with its use during breastfeeding lead many health professionals to recommend avoiding it. Mothers should prioritize their health while also considering the safety of their infants, making it essential to seek guidance from healthcare providers when in doubt.

Will my upset stomach affect my baby while breastfeeding?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.

Who Cannot take Pepto-Bismol?

Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for some people. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have: ever had an allergic reaction to bismuth subsalicylate or any of the other ingredients in Pepto-Bismol or Pepti Calm.

What are the nursing considerations for Pepto-Bismol?

Nursing Considerations: Bismuth subsalicylate contains salicylate. It should be avoided if the client has an allergy to salicylates (including aspirin) or if the client is taking other salicylate products such as aspirin. It should not be used if the client has an ulcer, a bleeding problem, or bloody or black stool.

What is the quickest way to get rid of a stomach bug baby?

You can treat stomach bugs at home by making sure your child keeps drinking fluids and gets plenty of rest. The best way to keep your child well hydrated is with an electrolyte-containing solution such as Pedialyte®. Have your child take small sips frequently — meaning every five minutes or so — throughout the day.

What can I take if I’m sick while breastfeeding?

Only a miniscule amount of ibuprofen or acetaminophen transfers to breastmilk, making these meds first-choice options for fever and headache while breastfeeding.

What happens if I take Pepto while breastfeeding?

It isn’t clinically known if Pepto-Bismol passes into breast milk. However, it is known that other types of salicylates pass into breast milk and may have harmful effects on a breastfeeding child. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests using caution with salicylates such as Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding.

Why can’t you take Pepto-Bismol while pregnant?

After taking Pepto Bismol, a mother’s bloodstream contains about as much salicylate as if she had taken a dose of regular aspirin. Salicylate cross the placenta, so the baby can be exposed. The potential exists for low birth weight, jaundice, bleeding, and birth defects.

What can you take for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Medicines For Digestive Problems
Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby. For a sour stomach or heartburn, Tums and Rolaids are safe to use. Look for the ingredients calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

What not to 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.

What can I take for stomach bug while breastfeeding?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.