How do you treat acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Understanding Acid Reflux in Breastfeeding Mothers
Acid reflux, a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, can be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers. Not only can it affect the mother’s comfort, but it can also impact the baby’s feeding experience. Fortunately, there are several strategies to manage acid reflux while breastfeeding, ensuring both mother and baby remain healthy and comfortable.
Dietary Modifications
One of the first steps in managing acid reflux is through dietary changes. Mothers are encouraged to identify and avoid foods that may trigger their symptoms. Common culprits include spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, and fatty foods. By eliminating these items from their diet, many mothers find relief from heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.
Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial. Drinking water can help dilute stomach acid, but it’s advisable to avoid large quantities during meals, as this can increase stomach pressure and exacerbate reflux.
Feeding Techniques
The way a mother feeds her baby can significantly influence reflux symptoms. Upright feeding positions are recommended, as they help keep the milk down in the baby’s stomach. Mothers can experiment with different positions, such as sitting the baby facing the breast with their legs on either side of the mother’s leg.
Frequent burping during and after feeds is also beneficial. This practice helps release any trapped air in the baby’s stomach, reducing the likelihood of spit-up. If the baby pulls off the nipple during breastfeeding, it’s a good cue to pause and burp them before continuing.
Post-Feeding Care
After feeding, keeping the baby in an upright position for at least 30 minutes can help minimize reflux episodes. This allows gravity to assist in keeping the milk down. Some mothers find that gentle rocking or holding the baby against their chest can also be soothing and effective.
Medication Options
In cases where dietary and positional adjustments do not provide sufficient relief, some mothers may consider medication. Over-the-counter antacids, H2-blockers, or proton pump inhibitors can be safe options during breastfeeding, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication. They can provide guidance on the safest choices based on individual health needs.
Emotional Support and Resources
Caring for a baby with reflux can be exhausting and isolating. Mothers are encouraged to seek support from healthcare professionals, lactation consultants, or breastfeeding support groups. These resources can offer practical advice and emotional support, helping mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding while managing acid reflux.
Conclusion
Managing acid reflux while breastfeeding requires a multifaceted approach that includes dietary modifications, careful feeding techniques, and, if necessary, medication. By implementing these strategies, mothers can alleviate their symptoms and create a more comfortable feeding experience for both themselves and their babies. As always, consulting with healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.

How do you stop acid reflux in breastfed babies?

Helping your baby with reflux

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)

What can I take for acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Antacid and alginate preparations
There is extensive experience of use of antacids during breastfeeding and they are considered first-line options for managing heartburn or dyspepsia. Alginates and simeticone are also considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding.

How I cured my baby’s acid reflux?

Lifestyle and home remedies

1. Feed your baby in an upright position. Then, hold your baby in a sitting position for 30 minutes after feeding.
2. Try smaller, more frequent feedings.
3. Take time to burp your baby.
4. Put baby to sleep on the back.

Does pacifier help with reflux?

It’s a common belief that using a dummy helps soothe babies with reflux. With acid reflux this is another big no no! Apart from teaching your baby the wrong association; sucking creates wind, stimulates stomach acid and adds fuel to the fire with reflux.

Is reflux worse in breastfed babies?

Formulas that claim to help with reflux lack these factors. They only differ from standard formula because they have thickener added. Reflux is about as common in formula-fed babies as in breastfed babies. However, reflux episodes in formula-fed babies tend to happen more often and last longer.

Can I use Preparation H while breastfeeding?

Products to treat haemorrhoids can be used by breastfeeding mothers without affecting breastfeeding. The absorption of the ingredient drugs from the rectum will not produce significant levels in breastmilk and can be used as necessary for the mother’s comfort (morning and night and after bowel motions).

Is hydrocortisone better than Preparation H?

Hydrocortisone topical has an average rating of 7.0 out of 10 from a total of 62 ratings on Drugs.com. 59% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 22% reported a negative effect. Preparation H Maximum Strength has an average rating of 5.0 out of 10 from a total of 8 ratings on Drugs.com.

Which antacid is safe during breastfeeding?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.

Does acidity in mother affect breast milk?

Eating such foods can cause gas in the mother’s bowel; however, gas and fiber do not pass into breast milk. Similarly, acidic foods like citrus fruits, pineapple, and tomatoes do not affect breast milk, as these foods do not change the pH of maternal plasma10).

Can I have Tums while breastfeeding?

Medications that are considered safe for breastfeeding
These include (but are not limited to): Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums) Anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Lovenox, Fragmin, Innohep, Heparin)