How much menthol is safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Menthol Use While Breastfeeding
When it comes to breastfeeding, many mothers are understandably cautious about what substances they consume, including menthol. This common ingredient, often found in cough drops and topical analgesics, raises questions about its safety for nursing mothers and their infants.
Safety of Menthol During Lactation
Research indicates that menthol is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding. It is classified as a low-risk substance, with minimal amounts transferring into breast milk. According to the InfantRisk Center, menthol is categorized as a Level 3 substance, meaning that while it is not entirely risk-free, adverse effects on infants from breastfeeding are unlikely due to the low relative dose and the body’s first-pass metabolism, which further reduces the amount that enters the bloodstream.
Moreover, a study highlighted that menthol is classified in Group A in Australia, indicating that it is safe even during pregnancy and lactation. This classification is supported by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which permits menthol to be added to food products, reinforcing its safety profile.
Recommended Usage and Precautions
While menthol is safe, moderation is key. Excessive consumption of menthol, particularly through cough drops or lozenges, may lead to a reduction in milk supply. Some anecdotal reports suggest that high amounts of menthol can negatively impact lactation. Therefore, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to avoid consuming large quantities of menthol-containing products.
For those using menthol for relief from sore throats or coughs, most lozenges and topical applications are deemed safe. However, it is prudent to monitor any changes in milk supply and consult with a healthcare provider if there are concerns.
Conclusion
In summary, menthol can be safely used by breastfeeding mothers, provided it is consumed in moderation. The low transfer rate into breast milk and the lack of significant adverse effects on infants make it a viable option for relief from common ailments. However, mothers should remain vigilant about their overall menthol intake to avoid any potential impact on milk production. As always, when in doubt, consulting with a healthcare professional is the best course of action.

Is a menthol patch safe while breastfeeding?

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Are menthol cough drops OK while pregnant?

That said, there have not been any reports of negative effects on a pregnancy due to menthol use. To be safe, you should talk to your doctor before taking menthol cough drops during pregnancy.

How many mg of menthol is too much?

To put it in perspective, a typical cough drop contains between 5 and 10 mg of menthol. There’s no accepted standard for a menthol overdose, but research suggests anywhere between 50 mg/kg and 1,000 mg/kg could cause a lethal overdose.

Does menthol pass through breast milk?

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.

Does menthol affect milk supply?

And unfortunately, menthol has been shown to decrease milk supply in some breastfeeding women. This doesn’t mean that you have to swear off mint altogether though. There is another variety of mint that is considered safer for nursing mothers: Spearmint.

How much menthol is too much for breastfeeding?

It’s a common belief that menthol or peppermint can reduce milk supply when breastfeeding. But we don’t have any studies to back this theory up. And it’s unlikely that the amount of menthol in these products would be enough to affect your breast milk supply.

Can I use Icy Hot if I’m breastfeeding?

You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Is it safe to use Vicks Vaporub on breastfeeding feet?

Don’t use Vicks Vaporub, either, because it contains camphor. There have been reports of camphor causing serious effects in babies, and the skin-to-skin contact while nursing may expose your baby to the cream or fumes.

Will thin mints hurt my milk supply?

That night I noticed I was pumping only about half my normal volume, then I realized that thin mints of course have peppermint in them. Peppermint is known to decrease milk supply and that is exactly what happened. Now I’m into my second night after my cookie binge and my supply is still tanked.

Can I have menthol cough drops while breastfeeding?

Avoid taking large amounts of cough drops containing menthol as this may decrease milk production.