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Is Midol safe to take while breastfeeding?

Is Midol Safe to Take While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing menstrual discomfort, many women turn to over-the-counter medications like Midol. However, for breastfeeding mothers, the safety of such medications is a crucial consideration. So, is Midol safe to take while breastfeeding? The answer is nuanced and depends on the specific formulation of Midol being considered.
Understanding Midol’s Ingredients
Midol is available in various formulations, with Midol Complete being one of the most common. This particular version contains a combination of acetaminophen, caffeine, and pamabrom. While acetaminophen is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, the inclusion of pamabrom raises some concerns. Pamabrom is a diuretic that can lead to fluid loss, potentially impacting breast milk production.
Expert Opinions on Safety
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, Midol is rated as compatible with breastfeeding. This is largely due to its low levels in breast milk and its short half-life, meaning it is metabolized quickly by the body. Studies have shown that the amounts of Midol’s active ingredients that pass into breast milk are minimal and are considered safe for infants.
However, some experts advise caution. Krystal Duhaney, a Registered Nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, notes that while it is usually okay to take Midol while breastfeeding, mothers should be mindful of the specific ingredients and their potential effects on both milk supply and the infant.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For breastfeeding mothers considering Midol, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before use. This is particularly important if the mother has concerns about her milk supply or if her infant has any health issues. Alternatives to Midol, such as ibuprofen, may also be worth discussing, as they are generally regarded as safe during breastfeeding.
In summary, while many healthcare professionals deem Midol safe for breastfeeding mothers, the specific formulation and individual health circumstances should guide the decision. Always prioritize open communication with healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.

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 pain reliever can you take nursing?

You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen together during breastfeeding if needed, up to their maximum daily doses. If your baby needs to take ibuprofen suspension (e.g. Nurofen for Children®) whilst you are taking ibuprofen, they can do so at their own full and normal dose.

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.

Does Midol affect breast milk supply?

5 Midol Complete contains 15 mg of Pyrilamine, and if too much is taken for a prolonged period, it could reduce milk supply slightly. 1 These cautions are why Dr. Paulson recommends Midol Long-Lasting Relief over the other products, as it only contains acetaminophen as the active ingredient.

Is it okay to take Pamprin while breastfeeding?

You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy. This product passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

What pain reliever can you take while breastfeeding?

Summary of Use during Lactation
There is no difference in breastfeeding initiation rate between ibuprofen or acetaminophen alone after vaginal delivery. Amounts in milk are much less than doses usually given to infants. Adverse effects in breastfed infants appear to be rare.

Why can’t you take ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

You can take ibuprofen or use it on your skin while breastfeeding. It is one of the painkillers that’s usually recommended if you’re breastfeeding. Only tiny amounts get into breast milk and it’s unlikely to cause side effects in your baby. Many people have used it while breastfeeding without any problems.

What can I take for a stomach bug while breastfeeding?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.

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 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.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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