Does anesthesia affect lactation?

Understanding the Impact of Anesthesia on Lactation
The relationship between anesthesia and lactation is a topic of significant concern for new mothers, particularly those undergoing surgical procedures. As more women opt for cesarean sections and other interventions, understanding how different types of anesthesia affect breastfeeding is crucial for maternal and infant health.
Types of Anesthesia and Their Effects
Research indicates that the type of anesthesia used during childbirth can influence the onset of lactation. For instance, women who undergo cesarean sections with general anesthesia may experience a delayed onset of lactation compared to those who receive spinal or epidural anesthesia, or those who have a vaginal birth. This delay can be attributed to the systemic effects of general anesthesia, which may impact hormonal responses necessary for milk production.
Inhaled anesthetic agents, such as Sevoflurane and Isoflurane, are noted for their rapid excretion and low bioavailability in breast milk. This means that they are generally considered safe for lactating women, allowing mothers to resume breastfeeding shortly after they regain consciousness and are alert enough to hold their infants.
The “Pump and Dump” Myth
A common piece of advice historically given to breastfeeding mothers post-anesthesia is to “pump and dump” their milk for a certain period to avoid passing any residual medication to their infants. However, this guidance is increasingly viewed as outdated. Current evidence suggests that the levels of anesthetic agents in breast milk are minimal and typically not significant enough to harm a nursing infant. Mothers are often encouraged to breastfeed as soon as they feel awake and alert, as the medication levels in their bloodstream—and consequently in their milk—are very low by that time.
Practical Considerations for New Mothers
For mothers undergoing surgery, it is essential to communicate with healthcare providers about the type of anesthesia being used and its implications for breastfeeding. While general anesthesia may delay lactation, the overall safety of breastfeeding after such procedures is generally affirmed. Mothers should feel empowered to ask questions and seek clarity on when they can safely resume nursing.
In conclusion, while anesthesia can affect the timing of lactation, particularly in the context of cesarean deliveries, the overall impact on breastfeeding is manageable. With proper guidance and understanding, new mothers can navigate these challenges effectively, ensuring both their health and that of their infants.

How long does anesthesia stay in your system?

Anesthetic drugs can stay in your system for up to 24 hours. If you’ve had sedation or regional or general anesthesia, you shouldn’t return to work or drive until the drugs have left your body. After local anesthesia, you should be able to resume normal activities, as long as your healthcare provider says it’s OK.

Does general anesthesia affect baby?

Prolonged (> 3 hours) or repeated use of general anesthetic and sedation drugs in pregnant women during their third trimester may affect the development of children’s brains. This may also affect children under the age of 3, according to the FDA safety announcement.

How long do I have to wait to breastfeed after anesthesia?

Based on extensive research, the current recommendation is that a mother can continue to feed her infant breast milk immediately following her surgical procedure or when she feels well enough to nurse or express her milk.

What negatively affects breast milk supply?

Supplementing with formula
However, supplementing with formula for multiple feedings every day (such as while the baby is at daycare) or releasing breast milk only when the baby wants to nurse tells your body that it doesn’t need to produce as much milk. Consequently, your supply will begin to decrease.

Will surgery affect my milk supply?

Breast or nipple surgery. Most mothers who have had breast or nipple surgery can produce some milk, but they may not produce a full milk supply. Women without a full milk supply can still breastfeed.

How long after surgery can you not breastfeed?

In most cases, you can resume breastfeeding when your baby has awakened from the anesthesia. However, surgery can be very disruptive and your baby may not be interested or ready to breastfeed immediately after surgery.

How long does local anesthesia stay in breastmilk?

It is entirely safe to breast feed after local anaesthetic. The amount of lidocaine that will be present in your breast milk is too small to be harmful to the baby. If you wish to breast feed from that breast you may decide to express and throw away the milk from that breast for up to 12 hours after the procedure.

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.

How do I get my milk supply back after surgery?

Ducts which have been severed during surgery, over time, may grow back. The best way to encourage milk production is to breastfeed or pump early and often to optimize your success.

Can anesthesia affect my breast milk?

All anesthetic and analgesic drugs can transfer into breastmilk; however, only small amounts are present in very low concentrations which are considered clinically insignificant.