How can I stop coughing while breastfeeding?

Understanding Coughing While Breastfeeding
Coughing can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, especially for breastfeeding mothers who are concerned about their health and the well-being of their baby. Whether it’s due to a cold, allergies, or another respiratory issue, managing a cough while nursing requires careful consideration of both treatment options and the potential impact on breastfeeding.
Safe Treatment Options
When it comes to treating a cough while breastfeeding, many medications are considered safe. For instance, dextromethorphan, commonly found in over-the-counter cough syrups like Robitussin and Delsym, is generally regarded as safe for nursing mothers and is unlikely to affect milk supply or cause side effects in infants. Additionally, guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps thin mucus, is also thought to be safe, although it hasn’t been extensively studied in breast milk.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs and circumstances. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest alternatives that are safe for both you and your baby.
Non-Medication Strategies
In addition to medication, there are several non-pharmaceutical strategies that can help alleviate coughing:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and soothe your throat, making it easier to manage a cough. Warm teas with honey (if your baby is over one year old) can be particularly soothing.
2. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help ease coughing, especially if it’s caused by dry air or congestion. A cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom can provide relief.
3. Practice Good Hygiene: To prevent spreading any illness to your baby, wash your hands frequently and consider wearing a mask while breastfeeding if you’re experiencing significant coughing or sneezing.
4. Rest and Recovery: Prioritize rest to allow your body to heal. This can also help reduce the severity of your cough.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If your cough persists for more than a few days, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fever or difficulty breathing, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatments that are safe for breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Coughing while breastfeeding can be managed effectively with a combination of safe medications and supportive care strategies. By staying informed and consulting with healthcare providers, you can ensure both your health and your baby’s well-being during this time. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential not only for your recovery but also for maintaining a healthy breastfeeding relationship.

Will Mucinex dry up my breast milk?

“It is best to avoid certain over-the-counter cough medications as they may decrease breast milk supply,” says Dr. Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk. Usually, antihistamines and nasal decongestants are the ingredients that have this effect on breastmilk.”

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.

Can breastfeeding moms take cough drops?

Most lozenges with menthol are safe for nursing moms because very little makes it into the milk supply. However, menthol is derived from peppermint oil, which may reduce milk supply in some women. It’s probably best to avoid consuming large amounts of peppermint or menthol cough drops.

Can breastfeeding moms have cough drops?

Most lozenges with menthol are safe for nursing moms because very little makes it into the milk supply. However, menthol is derived from peppermint oil, which may reduce milk supply in some women. It’s probably best to avoid consuming large amounts of peppermint or menthol cough drops.

What is the best decongestant to dry up breast milk?

The cold medication pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) may help reduce milk production. Researchers found that participants who took the pseudoephedrine had a significant reduction in breastmilk production compared to the participants who took a placebo (a pill that looks like medication but contains no medication).

Is coughing during breastfeeding normal?

If your baby is pulling off and gagging or coughing during feeding, sit your baby up in a seated burp position. Gently pat your baby’s back to help your little one calm down before you continue feeding. If you’ve tried the steps above and this continues to happen, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant.

Will my breastfed baby catch my cough?

Summary. You can continue to breastfeed when you have a cough, cold, the flu or COVID-19. Your child will not catch the infection from your breastmilk. Your milk will contain antibodies to the infection, which may protect your child.

What decongestant is safe while breastfeeding?

Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray is a nasal decongestant that can be used safely while breastfeeding. Because the medicine is not absorbed well from the nasal passages, it doesn’t have the same effect on milk supply that decongestants taken by mouth can have.

What cough syrup is safe while breastfeeding?

For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding.

What helps a cough while breastfeeding?

Cough. Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby.