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Is it okay to breastfeed while on magnesium sulfate?

Understanding Magnesium Sulfate and Breastfeeding
The question of whether it is safe to breastfeed while on magnesium sulfate is one that many new mothers may find themselves asking, particularly if they are receiving this treatment for conditions such as pre-eclampsia or other medical issues during or after pregnancy. The consensus among healthcare professionals and recent studies suggests that breastfeeding while on magnesium sulfate is generally considered safe.
Minimal Impact on Breast Milk
Research indicates that intravenous magnesium sulfate leads to only a slight increase in magnesium concentrations in breast milk. Importantly, the oral absorption of magnesium by infants is poor, meaning that even if magnesium is present in breast milk, it is unlikely to significantly affect the infant’s serum magnesium levels . This is reassuring for mothers who are concerned about the potential transfer of medication through breastfeeding.
Safety and Lactation
The safety of magnesium sulfate during breastfeeding has been supported by various studies. For instance, it has been noted that there have been no reported complications associated with the use of magnesium sulfate in breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, a controlled clinical trial found no evidence of delayed lactation in mothers who received intravenous magnesium sulfate therapy. This suggests that magnesium sulfate does not adversely affect the ability to breastfeed or the quality of breast milk.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding while on magnesium sulfate is generally deemed safe. The slight increase in magnesium levels in breast milk does not pose a significant risk to the infant, and there are no known adverse effects on lactation. Mothers should always consult with their healthcare providers for personalized advice, but the prevailing evidence supports the continuation of breastfeeding during magnesium sulfate treatment.

Does magnesium sulfate affect baby?

Magnesium sulfate infusion is safe and effective when administered for a short period. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that using it for more than five to seven days could increase the risk of low calcium levels and bone problems in the fetus.

What are the nursing implications for magnesium sulfate?

Be sure to closely monitor the patient’s blood pressure and cardiac rhythm. Magnesium sulfate relaxes the central nervous system, decreases hyperreflexia and may result in decreased deep tendon reflexes. The patient should be assessed for skeletal muscle weakness and hypotonia.

Can I take magnesium laxative while breastfeeding?

E.g. Magnesium Hydroxide, Magnesium Sulphate, Lactulose, Movicol ®. Passage of osmotic laxatives into breastmilk is low and they can all be used during breastfeeding.

What does magnesium do to the baby?

Almost every system in your body – and your developing baby’s body – needs magnesium. This mineral plays an important role in nerve and muscle function and helps to maintain normal blood pressure. It also helps your baby build strong teeth and bones.

How long can you stay on magnesium for preeclampsia?

Magnesium sulfate is typically taken for 24 hours.

Can I breastfeed if I have preeclampsia?

Yes you can; in fact, you may be at an even higher risk if you did not have preeclampsia during your pregnancy.

Can magnesium affect a breastfed baby?

Oral absorption of magnesium by the infant is poor, so maternal magnesium hydroxide is not expected to affect the breastfed infant’s serum magnesium. Magnesium oxide supplementation during pregnancy might delay the onset of lactation, but it can be taken during breastfeeding and no special precautions are required.

What are the symptoms of magnesium sulfate toxicity in mothers?

Monitor for signs and symptoms of magnesium sulfate toxicity (ie. hypotension, areflexia (loss of DTRs), respiratory depression, respiratory arrest, oliguria, shortness of breath, chest pains, slurred speech, hypothermia, confusion, circulatory collapse). 1.10.

What are the side effects of magnesium sulfate for the mother?

The ‘well recognised’ and more commonly reported maternal adverse effects of magnesium sulphate include flushing, increased warmth and sweating due to the peripheral vasodilatory effects of magnesium, and nausea, vomiting, headaches, muscle weakness, blurred vision, and intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) site pain …

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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