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Can you use anti inflammatory gel when breastfeeding?

Can You Use Anti-Inflammatory Gel While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing pain or inflammation during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of using anti-inflammatory gels. The good news is that certain topical anti-inflammatory medications can be used safely, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Topical vs. Systemic Absorption
Topical anti-inflammatory gels, such as those containing ibuprofen, are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. This is primarily due to their low systemic absorption, which means that only a minimal amount of the medication enters the bloodstream and subsequently into breast milk. Studies indicate that the levels of ibuprofen in breast milk after topical application are negligible, making it a preferred choice for nursing mothers seeking relief from pain or inflammation.
Safety of Specific Ingredients
While ibuprofen is a common choice, other anti-inflammatory agents may also be used with caution. For instance, medications like ketorolac and piroxicam have been approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics for breastfeeding mothers, categorized as having a low risk to infants. However, it is crucial to avoid using these medications excessively or without consulting a healthcare provider.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
Before using any anti-inflammatory gel, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider. This ensures that the chosen product is appropriate for their specific situation and that any potential risks are thoroughly discussed. Additionally, mothers should consider applying the gel to areas that are not in direct contact with the breast to further minimize any risk of exposure to the infant.
Timing of Application
To further reduce any potential risks, mothers can time the application of topical anti-inflammatories strategically. Applying the gel immediately after breastfeeding can help ensure that any residual medication has minimal contact with the infant. This practice can provide peace of mind while still allowing mothers to manage their discomfort effectively.
Conclusion
In summary, using anti-inflammatory gels while breastfeeding is generally safe, particularly those containing ibuprofen, due to their low absorption into breast milk. However, it is essential for mothers to consult with healthcare professionals and consider application timing to ensure the safety of both themselves and their infants. By taking these precautions, breastfeeding mothers can find relief from pain and inflammation without compromising their baby’s health.

Can I use Biofreeze while breastfeeding?

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Can you use Tgel while breastfeeding?

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Can I use icy hot while breastfeeding?

Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant.

Can I use oral gel while breastfeeding?

Lidocaine and breastfeeding
Lidocaine is OK to use while breastfeeding. It is only likely to pass into breast milk in tiny amounts, which are very unlikely to cause side effects in your baby. Always wash your hands after using a lidocaine treatment and before picking up your baby.

Can you use anti-inflammatory cream when breastfeeding?

Creams and sprays for muscle pain are safe to use. Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Actiprofen) or diclofenac (Voltaren) are the preferred anti-inflammatory drugs to use while breastfeeding. Take them only in low doses and only for a short time.

Is Orajel ok to use while pregnant?

While pregnant women can use Orajel, we typically suggest only using it when absolutely necessary because it may pose a risk to the unborn child. Orajel is a category C drug, which means that animal studies have demonstrated risk.

What can’t you use while breastfeeding?

Some prescription drugs, like medicine to help you sleep, some painkillers and drugs used to treat cancer or migraine headaches, aren’t safe to take while breastfeeding. Others, like certain kinds of birth control, may affect the amount of breast milk you make.

Why can’t you use ibuprofen gel when breastfeeding?

You can take ibuprofen or use it on your skin while breastfeeding. It is one of the painkillers that’s usually recommended if you’re breastfeeding. Only tiny amounts get into breast milk and it’s unlikely to cause side effects in your baby. Many people have used it while breastfeeding without any problems.

Can I use different gel while breastfeeding?

DIFFERIN should not be used during pregnancy. In case of unexpected pregnancy, treatment should be discontinued. It is not known whether adapalene is excreted in human milk. Therefore, the preparation should be used with caution in nursing mothers, and only on areas away from the chest.

Do I need to pump and dump after dental work?

Dental Drugs Safe for Breastfeeding
Your body does an excellent job of processing medicine and other substances before they get to the baby via your milk, and the old practice of pump-and-dump is rarely recommended anymore.

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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