Do oral steroids dry up breast milk?

Understanding the Impact of Oral Steroids on Breast Milk Production
The question of whether oral steroids can dry up breast milk is a nuanced one, as it involves understanding both the pharmacological effects of these medications and the physiological processes of lactation.
Corticosteroids and Breastfeeding
Oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone and prednisolone, are commonly prescribed for a variety of conditions due to their anti-inflammatory properties. When it comes to breastfeeding, research indicates that these medications can be used safely, with minimal transfer to breast milk. Studies show that the amounts of prednisone and prednisolone found in breast milk are very low, and no adverse effects have been reported in breastfed infants whose mothers are taking these medications.
While it is often suggested that mothers avoid breastfeeding for a few hours after taking a dose, this precaution is generally considered unnecessary due to the low levels of the drug present in breast milk. The consensus among health professionals is that corticosteroids can be used during breastfeeding, provided that the lowest effective dose is administered for the shortest duration necessary.
Do Steroids Affect Milk Supply?
The primary concern for breastfeeding mothers considering the use of oral steroids is whether these medications can impact milk supply. While corticosteroids are not specifically designed to dry up breast milk, they can have indirect effects on lactation. High doses of steroids may influence hormonal balances, which could potentially affect milk production. However, typical therapeutic doses are unlikely to cause significant changes in milk supply.
For mothers looking to intentionally reduce or stop breastfeeding, there are various methods available that are more effective than relying on corticosteroids. These methods include gradually reducing breastfeeding sessions, using cold compresses, and certain medications that can help dry up milk supply.
Conclusion
In summary, while oral steroids like prednisone and prednisolone are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers and do not significantly affect breast milk production, they are not a recommended method for drying up milk. Mothers should consult with healthcare providers to explore safe and effective strategies for managing their breastfeeding journey, especially if they are considering the use of corticosteroids for medical reasons.

Are oral steroids safe in pregnancy?

Corticosteroid use in early pregnancy has been linked in some (but not all) studies to a higher chance of having a baby with a cleft lip and/or palate. However, it is clear that the vast majority of babies exposed in the womb to systemic corticosteroids are born without these conditions.

Will a steroid shot dry up breast milk?

A rare side effect of using low dose, intra-lesional injections of methyl prednisolone acetate in women during the post partum period is the temporary suppression of lactation. If it happens then spontaneous resumption of lactation should be expected within 24-48 hours.

Are there side effects of corticosteroids while breastfeeding?

Corticosteroids pass into breast milk and may cause problems with growth or other unwanted effects in nursing babies. Depending on the amount of medicine you are taking every day, it may be necessary for you to take another medicine or to stop breast-feeding during treatment.

Do oral steroids decrease milk supply?

Steroids are also commonly used for pediatric treatment with no side effects when used sparingly and for short periods of time. High doses steroids can cause a transient decrease in milk production.

What are the side effects of steroids in pregnancy for the mother?

Commonly reported side-effects after taking steroids are: • Flushing of the mother’s face and chest. Some glucose appearing in the mother’s urine for a day or two. Some difficulty in getting off to sleep at night for one or two days. Some reduction in the baby’s movements for about 24 hours.

How to tell if breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

What causes breast milk to dry up?

Possible causes of low supply
Nearly all babies need to feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Your baby does not feed effectively at the breast. You have started using formula milk as well as breastfeeding. You have had breast surgery that is affecting your milk supply.

What does the steroid shot do for the baby?

Women who may be at risk of giving birth prematurely can be given corticosteroids to prevent their babies from having trouble breathing once they are born. Corticosteroids are anti-inflammation medicines that help the baby’s lungs mature before being born.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

Can you take oral steroids while breastfeeding?

Prednisolone and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says that your baby is healthy, it’s OK to take prednisolone while breastfeeding. Prednisolone passes into breast milk in small amounts. It has been used for many years in breastfeeding women without side effects in their babies.