How long to wait to breastfeed after local anesthesia?

Understanding Breastfeeding After Local Anesthesia
When it comes to breastfeeding after receiving local anesthesia, many mothers are understandably concerned about the safety of their infants. The prevailing advice has evolved significantly over the years, moving away from the more cautious “pump and dump” approach that suggested mothers should discard their breast milk for a full 24 hours post-anesthesia.
Current Recommendations
Recent reviews and guidelines indicate that the risk of significant medication transfer into breast milk after local anesthesia is minimal. In fact, most local anesthetics are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has clarified that breastfeeding can typically resume immediately after the effects of local anesthesia wear off, as the medications used are unlikely to harm the infant.
Factors to Consider
While the general consensus is that breastfeeding can continue shortly after local anesthesia, several factors can influence this decision:
1. Type of Procedure: The nature of the surgical procedure and the specific anesthetic agents used can play a role. For instance, procedures that involve more extensive sedation or the use of certain medications may require a longer waiting period.
2. Individual Health Factors: Each mother’s health status and the specifics of her anesthesia experience should be discussed with her healthcare provider. If there are any concerns about the medications used or the mother’s recovery, it’s best to consult with a medical professional.
3. Infant’s Age and Health: The age and health of the breastfeeding infant can also be a consideration. Younger infants or those with health issues may require more caution.
Practical Advice
For mothers undergoing procedures with local anesthesia, the best course of action is to communicate openly with their healthcare team. Informing the anesthesiologist and surgeon about breastfeeding intentions allows for tailored advice based on the specific situation. In most cases, mothers can feel reassured that they can resume breastfeeding shortly after the procedure, often without the need to discard any milk.
In summary, while the outdated advice of waiting 24 hours after anesthesia may still circulate, current medical guidance supports the safety of breastfeeding soon after local anesthesia. Mothers should always prioritize communication with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their infants.

Can I breastfeed after being numbed at the dentist?

There is no evidence to interrupt breastfeeding after the use of local anaesthetics. Local anaesthetics work by deadening sensation of the nerve endings around the tooth. There is no evidence of passage into breastmilk and therefore no reason not to continue breastfeeding.

How long to pump and dump after numbing cream?

“The standard thinking has been ‘pump and dump’ – discarding the breast milk for 24 hours after anesthesia. As an outdated practice, it is not evidence-based and is potentially harmful for babies. The evidence shows that this breast milk is safe.”

Can you breastfeed after toradol injection?

Summary of Use during Lactation
Ketorolac injection is used for a short time (typically 24 hours) after cesarean section in some hospital protocols with no evidence of harm to breastfed infants. However, the ketorolac dose an infant receives in colostrum is very low because of the small volume of colostrum produced.

What sedation is safe breastfeeding?

Maternal use of sedating drugs during breastfeeding is generally acceptable, provided that the infants are monitored for adverse CNS effects. Mothers should contact their physicians if any adverse events are observed in their infants.

How long does lidocaine stay in breastmilk?

Drug Levels
Six women were given 3.6 mL of lidocaine 2% without epinephrine and a seventh received 4.5 mL and 7.2 mL lidocaine 2% without epinephrine on two separate occasions for dental procedures. Milk lidocaine concentrations averaged 120.5 mcg/L at 3 hours after the dose and 58.3 mcg/L 6 hours after the dose.

How long before anesthesia can you have breast milk?

This means finishing breastfeeding by three to four hours before anesthesia will be administered. Discuss the recommendation in your area with your providers before surgery. Formula or breastmilk with added supplements should not be fed to a baby for six hours before anesthesia, as these feedings take longer to digest.

How long after anesthesia can a baby eat?

Wait to offer drinks and food until you get home. Feed your baby when they are awake and able to suck. Start with clear liquids, such as juice, Pedialyte, Gatorade, popsicles or breast milk.

How long should you not 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.

Can you breastfeed after local anesthesia?

Yes, your milk is safe to use and you can breastfeed after anesthesia. In most cases, the milk you make before and after a surgery or procedure is safe for your child.

How long do you have to wait to eat after getting numbed at the dentist?

If you’ve recently had dental work done, you might be wondering when you can eat again. In most cases, you are able to eat as soon as the numbing agent wears off. Chewing while your tongue is numb is never a good idea. The Novocain should wear off within about three hours, but can sometimes take longer.