Is Midol ok to take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Midol and Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing menstrual cramps or discomfort while breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety of taking medications like Midol. Midol is a popular over-the-counter pain relief medication that often contains a combination of acetaminophen, caffeine, and an antihistamine, among other ingredients.
Safety Profile of Midol During Breastfeeding
According to health experts, Midol is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The American Academy of Pediatrics has rated it as compatible with breastfeeding, primarily due to its extremely low levels in breast milk and its short half-life. This means that the amount of medication that actually transfers to breast milk is minimal, and studies have shown that infants can safely tolerate doses much higher than what would be excreted through breast milk.
Krystal Duhaney, a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, emphasizes that while it is usually okay to take Midol while breastfeeding, it is always prudent to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with individual health needs.
Active Ingredients and Their Effects
Midol’s formulation can vary, but common ingredients include acetaminophen, which is widely accepted as safe during breastfeeding, and pyrilamine maleate, an antihistamine that may raise concerns due to its potential effects on milk supply and infant sedation. However, the consensus among healthcare professionals is that the benefits of pain relief often outweigh the risks associated with these ingredients when taken in recommended doses.
Recommendations for Use
While Midol can be an effective solution for menstrual discomfort, mothers are encouraged to monitor their infants for any unusual reactions, especially when trying a new medication. If any concerns arise, such as changes in the baby’s behavior or feeding patterns, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician.
In summary, Midol can be safely taken while breastfeeding, but as with any medication, it is best to discuss its use with a healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation. This approach not only prioritizes the mother’s health but also safeguards the well-being of the breastfeeding infant.

What medications should be avoided 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.

What pain relief is safe while breastfeeding?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
These are generally acceptable during breastfeeding as they transfer only in small amounts into breastmilk. Ibuprofen is the first-choice anti-inflammatory when breastfeeding as it has been used by many breastfeeding mothers without any reports of problems.

Why does my period hurt worse when I breastfeed?

You may notice the bleeding is redder and heavier when you breastfeed. This happens because breastfeeding makes your womb contract. You may also feel cramps similar to period pains.

Can a breastfeeding mom take Midol?

Nursing mothers can use: acetaminophen (Tylenol) ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Proprinal) naproxen (Aleve, Midol, Flanax), for short-term use only.

Is Midol safe for pregnancy?

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug may pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Is Dramamine ok to take while breastfeeding?

Despite it is consider safe to use Dramamine during pregnancy, you should check with your doctor before using Dramamine. Lactation: Small amounts of Dramamine are excreted in breast milk. Dramamine should not be given to breastfeeding mothers unless the benefits of therapy outweigh the potential risks.

What medications decrease milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.

What can I take for menstrual cramps 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.

What can I take for motion sickness while breastfeeding?

Hyoscine hydrobromide is used in infants over 1 month old and is the preferred medicine for motion sickness during breastfeeding.