Is it safe to take period delay tablets while breastfeeding?

Understanding Period Delay Tablets While Breastfeeding
For many new mothers, the prospect of managing their menstrual cycle while breastfeeding can be daunting. The question of whether it is safe to take period delay tablets during this time is particularly pressing, as women often seek to navigate significant life events without the inconvenience of menstruation.
What Are Period Delay Tablets?
Period delay tablets, such as those containing the hormone norethisterone, are designed to postpone menstruation. They work by altering the hormonal signals that trigger the menstrual cycle. While these tablets can be effective, their use during breastfeeding raises important health considerations.
Safety Concerns for Breastfeeding Mothers
Medical professionals generally advise caution when it comes to hormonal treatments during breastfeeding. According to health experts, it is preferable to avoid taking hormonal tablets unless absolutely necessary. This is primarily due to the potential risks associated with hormonal medications, which can affect both the mother and the breastfeeding infant.
Specifically, norethisterone is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. The rationale behind this caution is that hormonal medications can potentially influence milk supply and composition, which may not be ideal for infants who rely on breast milk for nutrition.
Natural Alternatives and Considerations
Interestingly, breastfeeding itself can naturally suppress menstruation through a phenomenon known as lactational amenorrhea. This means that many women may not experience their periods at all during the early months of breastfeeding, making the need for period delay tablets less pressing.
For those who do find themselves needing to manage their menstrual cycle, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and explore alternative methods that may be safer for both mother and child.
Conclusion
In summary, while period delay tablets can provide a convenient solution for managing menstruation, their use during breastfeeding is generally discouraged due to potential risks. Mothers are encouraged to consider natural alternatives and seek professional guidance to ensure the health and well-being of both themselves and their infants.

How to delay periods naturally during breastfeeding?

There have been anecdotal reports of natural ways to delay menstrual cycles, such as lentils, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and lime juice.

Who should not take period delay tablets?

If you’re pregnant, could be pregnant, or you’re trying to get pregnant, do not use this service. If you’ve given birth within the last six weeks, do not use this service. If you’re breastfeeding there may be a temporary reduction in your milk if you take these period delay tablets.

Is it safe to take norethindrone while breastfeeding?

Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.

Is period delay harmful?

Contrary to popular belief, periods aren’t crucial for your well-being, and it’s OK to delay or skip them — as long as you do it safely and consult your doctor first. How simple it is, however, will depend on whether you’re already on certain types of birth control.

Who can’t take norethisterone?

If you’re pregnant, or think that you might be pregnant or are trying to conceive, you shouldn’t take norethisterone. You should also avoid taking norethisterone if you’re breastfeeding.

What can I take for my period while breastfeeding?

Although there is no research to support this suggestion, some nursing parents find it helpful to take a supplement of between 500 mg calcium/250 mg magnesium and 1000 mg calcium/500 mg magnesium for three days before their period until three days after their period starts (Marasco & West; 2020).

Can breastfeeding moms take norethisterone?

There seems to be no risk to the breastfeeding baby of a short course of medication at this dose.

Is Depo Provera safe for breastfeeding mothers?

Breastfeeding while taking depot medroxyprogesterone acetate: Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate gets into breast milk in small amounts and is not expected to negatively affect a child’s long-term growth and development.

Can I take period delay tablets when breastfeeding?

Others use it to stop heavy bleeding and wish to continue to breastfeed. Norethisterone 5mg tablets (Primolut N®, Utovlan®) is often prescribed to delay periods. This might be requested by the breastfeeding mother for example before a holiday or a wedding.

Can period delay tablets cause infertility?

Delayed return of fertility and irregular cycles may occur after discontinuation of treatment but there is no evidence of permanent infertility.