Is it okay to have menthol while breastfeeding?

Understanding Menthol Use While Breastfeeding
When it comes to breastfeeding, many mothers are understandably cautious about what they consume, including medications and topical treatments. One common ingredient that often raises questions is menthol, a compound found in various products such as cough drops, topical ointments, and even some teas.
Safety of Menthol During Breastfeeding
According to health guidelines, menthol is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. The FDA has not classified menthol as harmful during lactation, which suggests that it does not pose significant risks to nursing infants when used appropriately. This is particularly relevant for topical applications, such as mentholated ointments or creams, which are unlikely to transfer into breast milk in harmful amounts.
Cough Drops and Cold Medications
For mothers dealing with colds or congestion, menthol is a common ingredient in cough drops and cold medications. These products are typically safe for breastfeeding mothers, although it’s important to be aware that some ingredients in cough drops could potentially affect milk supply. Therefore, while menthol itself is not a concern, mothers should read labels carefully and consult healthcare providers if they have specific concerns about other components in these products.
General Guidelines for Medication Use
In general, medications taken while breastfeeding are not usually passed into breast milk in quantities that would harm an infant. However, it is always wise for nursing mothers to consult with healthcare professionals regarding any medications or supplements they plan to take. This ensures that both the mother’s health and the baby’s safety are prioritized.
Conclusion
In summary, menthol is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers when used in moderation, particularly in topical forms or as part of cough remedies. As always, if there are any doubts or specific health concerns, consulting a healthcare provider is the best course of action to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

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.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.

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 menthol safe while breastfeeding?

Menthol can have a cooling, soothing effect on the throat. The National Institute of Health reports that menthol does enter breast milk in small amounts, but that it’s generally considered safe.

Is a menthol patch safe while breastfeeding?

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

How to treat a cold sore while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding and cold sores
Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.

Does menthol affect babies?

Avoid using menthol-containing products, such as those added to vaporizers or rubbed on the chest. They can, actually, aggravate a cough. Children over 24 months with a severe cough that interferes with sleep or school may use an OTC cough suppressant; consult your pediatrician first.

Can I use icy hot while breastfeeding?

Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant.

Is it safe to use Vicks Vapor Rub while breastfeeding?

However, camphor can cause miscarriage when swallowed. Because of this, pregnant people should wash their hands after using Vicks VapoRub to avoid accidentally swallowing the product. To avoid accidental consumption by nursing infants, this product should not be applied to the chest during lactation.