Is menthol gel safe while breastfeeding?

Is Menthol Gel Safe While Breastfeeding?
The safety of using menthol gel during breastfeeding is a topic of interest for many nursing mothers seeking relief from discomfort. Menthol, a common ingredient in topical analgesics, is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding, but there are important nuances to consider.
General Safety Profile
According to recent findings, menthol gel is mostly safe for breastfeeding mothers. The amount of menthol that transfers into breast milk is minimal, which significantly reduces the risk of adverse effects on infants. This is largely due to the body’s first-pass metabolism, which further diminishes the concentration of menthol that could potentially reach the baby.
Potential Benefits
Menthol is known for its soothing properties and is often used to relieve pain and discomfort. For breastfeeding mothers, it can be particularly beneficial in addressing issues such as nipple fissures, a common ailment during nursing. Studies have indicated that topical applications of peppermint, which contains menthol, may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in these cases.
Cautions and Considerations
While the general consensus leans towards the safety of menthol gel, some caution is advised. Certain sources recommend avoiding the application of menthol directly on the breasts, as there is a potential risk of infants ingesting the substance during breastfeeding. Severe intoxications have been reported in rare cases when small amounts were ingested. Additionally, there are anecdotal reports suggesting that peppermint oil, from which menthol is derived, may reduce milk supply in some women.
Conclusion
In summary, menthol gel can be a safe option for breastfeeding mothers seeking relief from pain, provided it is used judiciously. It is advisable to apply it away from the breast area to minimize any risk of ingestion by the infant. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment is recommended to ensure it aligns with individual health needs and circumstances.

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 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.

Can I use Biofreeze while breastfeeding?

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

What pain relief is safe while breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
• Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

Who cannot use Biofreeze?

Due to the menthol cooling of this product, you should not use Biofreeze if you have any cuts or bruises or skin conditions. It should also not be used with a heating pad. These conditions can counteract its effectiveness or cause further skin irritations.

Can I use menthol ointment while pregnant?

If you are pregnant or may be pregnant. Do not take methyl salicylate and menthol cream and ointment if you are in the third trimester of pregnancy. You may also need to avoid methyl salicylate and menthol cream and ointment at other times during pregnancy.

How to treat a cold when breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

Can I use topical menthol while breastfeeding?

-Oral ingestion of menthol resulted in detectable levels in human milk; there are no data on the excretion of topical menthol into human milk. –If used on the nipples, use after nursing and wipe off before the next nursing.

Does menthol affect breastfeeding?

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.

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.