Can you use throat numbing spray while breastfeeding?

Can You Use Throat Numbing Spray While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing a sore throat during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of using throat numbing sprays. These sprays often contain active ingredients like lidocaine, which is a local anesthetic that temporarily numbs the throat to relieve pain. Understanding the implications of using such products while nursing is crucial for both the mother and the infant.
Safety of Throat Sprays During Breastfeeding
According to information from health experts, throat numbing sprays that contain lidocaine are generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. The NHS provides guidance indicating that lidocaine, when used in small amounts as a throat spray, is unlikely to pose a risk to a breastfeeding infant. This is primarily because the amount that could potentially transfer into breast milk is minimal and not expected to have any adverse effects on the baby.
However, it is essential for nursing mothers to use these sprays as directed and to avoid excessive use. Overuse could lead to higher concentrations of the medication in the bloodstream, which might increase the risk of side effects.
Alternative Remedies and Considerations
While throat numbing sprays can provide quick relief, they are not the only option available. Many mothers prefer to explore natural remedies or other over-the-counter medications that are deemed safe during breastfeeding. For instance, staying hydrated, using warm salt water gargles, and consuming soothing teas can help alleviate throat discomfort without the need for medicated sprays.
Additionally, consulting with a healthcare provider before using any medication, including throat sprays, is always a prudent approach. They can provide personalized advice based on the specific health needs of the mother and the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, throat numbing sprays, particularly those containing lidocaine, can be used safely by breastfeeding mothers when used appropriately. However, it is advisable to consider alternative remedies and to consult healthcare professionals for tailored advice. This ensures that both the mother’s health and the infant’s safety are prioritized during treatment.

Can I take anything for a cold while breastfeeding?

Pain relievers, nonsedating antihistamines, nasal sprays, and over-the-counter cough medicines are generally safe to take while breastfeeding. However, people should avoid ingredients that cause drowsiness, irritability, and reduced milk production.

Can I take anything for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Sore throat
Throat lozenges containing local anaesthetic, antibacterial agents or benzydamine may be used while breastfeeding. Avoid excessive use as it may cause unwanted side effects such as diarrhoea. Gargling salt water or drinking lemon and honey products may also help to ease a sore throat.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

Is throat spray safe 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.

Do I need to pump and dump after lidocaine?

Local (Bupivacaine, lidocaine, mepivacaine): These are put into the body at the site of the procedure. They generally don’t disperse much in the blood, and therefore don’t pass into breastmilk. No interruption of breastfeeding or pumping.

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.

Can I use throat numbing spray while pregnant?

Lidocaine is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, some lidocaine treatments for mouth and throat contain additional ingredients. They may contain salicylates such as choline salicylate.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects

Is benzocaine safe for breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while using benzocaine:
Benzocaine has not been well-studied for use during breastfeeding. It is not recommended to apply benzocaine to the breasts or nipples because of the risk for methemoglobinemia (a serious blood disorder) if the baby ingests it.

What numbing medication is safe while 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.