Does Motrin decrease milk supply?

Understanding the Impact of Motrin on Milk Supply
The question of whether Motrin, a common over-the-counter pain reliever containing ibuprofen, affects breast milk supply is one that many nursing mothers may ponder. While the primary function of Motrin is to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, its implications for breastfeeding are worth exploring.
The Mechanism of Lactation
Breast milk production is a complex physiological process influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, maternal hydration, and overall health. The body typically produces milk in response to the baby’s feeding cues, with the hormone prolactin playing a crucial role in this process.
Motrin and Its Effects
Motrin, or ibuprofen, is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding. According to available information, there is no substantial evidence to suggest that Motrin directly decreases milk supply. In fact, the medication is often recommended for nursing mothers to manage pain without significant concern for its impact on lactation.
However, it is essential to recognize that while Motrin itself may not inhibit milk production, other factors associated with its use could potentially influence supply. For instance, if a mother is taking Motrin due to pain or discomfort that affects her ability to nurse effectively, this could indirectly lead to a decrease in milk supply. Stress, dehydration, and inadequate feeding frequency are known contributors to reduced lactation, and these factors can be exacerbated by physical discomfort.
Considerations for Nursing Mothers
For nursing mothers considering the use of Motrin, it is advisable to monitor their overall health and well-being. Staying hydrated, managing stress, and ensuring regular breastfeeding or pumping sessions are crucial for maintaining a healthy milk supply. If pain relief is necessary, Motrin can be a suitable option, but mothers should remain attentive to their body’s responses and consult healthcare providers if they notice any changes in milk production.
In summary, while Motrin does not appear to have a direct negative impact on milk supply, the context in which it is used can play a significant role in a mother’s breastfeeding experience. As always, individual responses can vary, and maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals is key to navigating any concerns related to breastfeeding and medication use.

What medications drop milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.

Will ibuprofen dry up breast milk?

Experiencing pain and discomfort is common after childbirth. Many women want to take medicine to help relieve their symptoms but may feel uncertain about which medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding. Luckily, ibuprofen has been proven safe for both mother and baby during breastfeeding.

Does Motrin affect breast milk?

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.

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

Does Motrin help with engorgement?

If engorgement does occur, apply ice packs to breast and medicate with Ibuprofen. This must be done continuously for several days. Medication is no longer used to “dry up” your breast milk.

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.

What medication dries up breast milk?

Women sometimes to ask for a tablet to stop their milk supply. This medication works best if it is taken within 12- 24 hours of your baby’s birth. The medication is not routinely prescribed in hospital due to the many side effects and health risks with this medication. The medication is called cabergoline (Dostinex®).

How do you fix a dropped milk supply?

Pumping or expressing milk frequently between nursing sessions, and consistently when you’re away from your baby, can help build your milk supply. Relax and massage. Relax, hold your baby skin-to-skin, and massage your breasts before feeding to encourage your milk to let down.

How to tell when breast milk is drying up?

If your milk supply is decreasing, you’ll notice:

1. Your baby stops gaining or begins to lose weight. Younger babies will gain between 1.5 and 2 pounds each month.
2. Your baby is showing signs of dehydration.
3. Your baby is fussy or lethargic and struggling to stay awake while breastfeeding.

What medicine to avoid while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.