Does MiraLAX affect breast milk supply?

Understanding MiraLAX and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
MiraLAX, a popular over-the-counter laxative containing polyethylene glycol, is often used to relieve constipation. For breastfeeding mothers, concerns about the safety of medications and their potential effects on breast milk supply and quality are paramount.
Safety Profile of MiraLAX During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that MiraLAX is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. According to a 2005 literature review by the American Gastroenterological Association, the medication is classified as low risk for breastfeeding mothers. Importantly, studies suggest that at normal doses, MiraLAX does not significantly pass into breast milk, which means it is unlikely to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants.
A 2017 study published in the Korean Journal of Pediatrics further supports this notion, indicating that there are no specific foods or medications that breastfeeding mothers need to avoid unless their baby shows an obvious negative reaction. This suggests that MiraLAX, when used appropriately, should not interfere with breast milk supply or quality.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Despite the reassuring evidence, healthcare professionals still recommend that breastfeeding mothers consult with their doctors before starting any new medication, including MiraLAX. This is particularly important as individual health circumstances can vary widely, and a healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on a mother’s specific situation.
Conclusion
In summary, MiraLAX appears to be a safe option for breastfeeding mothers dealing with constipation, with minimal risk of affecting breast milk supply or quality. However, as with any medication, it is prudent to seek medical advice to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.

Does MiraLAX help postpartum?

Many people fear the first bowel movement. If, however, you try not to poop you will find you get constipated and that will be uncomfortable whether you have stitches or not! We recommend using stool softeners until regular bowel movements are reestablished. You can use colace or Miralax.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

How long does MiraLAX stay in your system?

Miralax is used for short-term treatment of constipation. The effects last for about a day and may take up to 2-3 days to be fully removed from your system. The laxative travels through your digestive system and is eliminated from your body with stool.

Can MiraLAX affect breast milk?

2) Stool softeners and laxatives (Miralax, Dulcolax, Colace, Surfak): Stool softeners are safe because they are not absorbed through the intestines to any extent, and therefore are not found in breast milk.

What is the best laxative for constipation after giving birth?

Osmotic laxatives, such as Milk of Magnesia and lactulose, help retain water in the colon thereby softening the stool and increasing the number of stools (National Institute of Health 2013).

What to drink to increase breast milk fast?

Drinks to increase nutrients in breast milk

1. Water. Plain water tops the list because not getting enough of it can directly reduce your milk supply.
2. Cow’s milk. Cow’s milk is on the list because of its nutrient density.
3. Herbal tea with fenugreek.
4. Fruit smoothie with chia seeds.
5. Coconut water.
6. Juice.

Do laxatives affect your breast milk?

Stool softeners such as docusate or osmotic laxatives such as lactulose, glycerol or macrogol are safe to use at the recommended doses while breastfeeding. Stimulant laxatives such as senna or biscodyl may pass into the breast milk and cause diarrhoea in your baby.

What medications decrease milk supply?

High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol) Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Testosterone. Estrogen.

How long does Miralax stay in your system?

Miralax is used for short-term treatment of constipation. The effects last for about a day and may take up to 2-3 days to be fully removed from your system. The laxative travels through your digestive system and is eliminated from your body with stool.

What can a breastfeeding mom take for constipation?

Using laxatives during breastfeeding

• Bisacodyl.
• Docusate.
• Glycerol suppositories.
• Senna.
• Sodium picosulfate.