Is it safe to take melatonin when breastfeeding?

Understanding Melatonin Use During Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding, sleep disturbances often become a significant concern. Many turn to melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, as a potential remedy. However, the safety of melatonin supplementation during breastfeeding remains a topic of debate among healthcare professionals.
Current Research and Recommendations
According to the Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), while some breastfeeding mothers have used melatonin supplements without apparent harm to their nursing infants, the evidence is not robust enough to provide a definitive endorsement for its use. The database indicates that short-term use in the evening is unlikely to pose a risk, but it emphasizes the need for caution due to the limited data available on the long-term effects of melatonin on breastfeeding infants.
Healthcare experts generally advise against the routine use of melatonin for breastfeeding mothers. A certified family nurse practitioner noted that while occasional use might be considered safe, regular supplementation is not recommended due to the insufficient data supporting its safety. This sentiment is echoed by other sources, which highlight the absence of specific studies examining the effects of exogenous melatonin on breastfeeding .
Potential Risks and Considerations
One of the primary concerns regarding melatonin use during breastfeeding is its long half-life, particularly in premature infants. This means that the hormone could remain in their systems longer, potentially leading to unforeseen effects. Additionally, there have been isolated reports of adverse events, such as an infant experiencing a bleeding problem linked to maternal melatonin use, although such cases are rare.
Experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers consult with their healthcare providers before starting any supplement, including melatonin. This is crucial not only to discuss the potential benefits and risks but also to explore alternative methods for managing sleep disturbances that may not involve supplementation.
Conclusion
In summary, while some breastfeeding mothers have used melatonin without immediate adverse effects, the lack of comprehensive research means that its safety cannot be guaranteed. The consensus among healthcare professionals is to approach melatonin supplementation with caution, prioritizing discussions with healthcare providers to ensure the well-being of both mother and child. As always, individual circumstances vary, and personalized medical advice is essential in navigating these decisions.

How much melatonin can I take while pregnant?

Melatonin hasn’t been proven safe in pregnancy, and there is no standard dosage, which makes it tricky to buy off the shelf and take on your own. Melatonin is considered safe for short-term use, but its long-term effects have not been studied.

What makes you sleepy breastfeeding?

Oxytocin, also known as “the love hormone,” packs a powerful punch that, while supporting healthy breastfeeding/chestfeeding, has one potentially dangerous side-effect: it can make people tired.

Does your body produce melatonin in breast milk?

Breastfeeding is an important source of melatonin in the immediate postnatal period and during the first few months of life. Circadian fluctuations in melatonin concentration in breast milk with low levels during the day and high levels at night help maintain the newborn’s entrainment in circadian rhythmicity.

Does melatonin affect the breast?

Melatonin exhibits several oncostatic actions, including effects on estrogen and fat metabolism, which may impact the risk of breast and endometrial cancer in women.

Does melatonin mess with female hormones?

Because melatonin is a hormone, it’s possible that melatonin supplements could affect hormonal development, including puberty, menstrual cycles, and overproduction of the hormone prolactin, but we don’t know for sure.

Does melatonin interact with milk?

The biochemistry of endogenous melatonin production is such that dairy products could affect sleep through their nutrient profiles, which would promote melatonin synthesis by increasing circulating Trp (Figure 1).

Is melatonin safe in the first trimester?

Contrary to what animal studies have suggested, evidence from clinical studies to date suggests that melatonin use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is probably safe in humans.

What can I take for sleep while breastfeeding?

However, the ‘z- drugs’ (zolpidem and zopiclone) are preferred for the short-term management of insomnia during breastfeeding, as they have shorter half-lives than the benzodiazepines and appear to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Melatonin can also be used in breastfeeding with caution.

What not to take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Can I have melatonin while breastfeeding?

Melatonin and breastfeeding
It’s thought to be a small amount that is unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby. However, if taken for longer periods of time, it might make your baby sleepy. It’s important not to share a bed with your baby while you’re taking melatonin.