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Is MiraLAX safe to take while breastfeeding?

Is MiraLAX Safe to Take While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing constipation during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of using MiraLAX, a popular over-the-counter laxative. The active ingredient in MiraLAX is polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350), which is designed to relieve constipation by drawing water into the bowel, making stools easier to pass.
Safety Profile of MiraLAX for Breastfeeding Mothers
Research indicates that MiraLAX is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. At normal doses, the medication does not significantly pass into breast milk, which means it is unlikely to cause side effects in breastfed infants. This is a reassuring factor for mothers who are concerned about the potential impact of medications on their babies.
Moreover, stool softeners and laxatives like MiraLAX are not absorbed through the intestines to any significant extent, further supporting their safety profile during breastfeeding. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that the use of MiraLAX does not pose a risk to nursing infants, making it a viable option for mothers dealing with constipation.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Despite the general safety of MiraLAX, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication, including over-the-counter options like MiraLAX. This is particularly important as individual health circumstances can vary, and a healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on a mother’s specific situation.
Conclusion
In summary, MiraLAX is considered safe for use while breastfeeding, as it does not significantly enter breast milk and is unlikely to affect nursing infants. However, as with any medication, it is prudent for mothers to discuss their options with a healthcare professional to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

What can I take for constipation while breastfeeding?

Stimulant laxatives

  • Bisacodyl. Show. Preferred choice. Bisacodyl can be used during breastfeeding.
  • Docusate. Show. Preferred choice. Docusate can be used during breastfeeding.
  • Glycerol suppositories. Show. Preferred choice.
  • Senna. Show. Preferred choice.
  • Sodium picosulfate. Show. Preferred choice.

How much MiraLAX is safe during pregnancy?

MiraLAX is safe to take while you’re pregnant. But you should consult a healthcare provider if you need to take it regularly for longer than a week. There’s a chance it could affect your water-electrolyte balance over time. Your healthcare provider will want to keep an eye on this during your pregnancy.

How long after MiraLAX will I poop?

It usually takes about 30-60 minutes after drinking the Miralax solution to begin having bowel movements. You may notice some bloating or cramping at the beginning of the preparation, but this will usually improve once the bowel movements begin.

What are the nursing implications for MiraLAX?

During pregnancy, MiraLAX should be used only when prescribed. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

How can I help my constipated breastfed baby poop?

Give your baby a warm bath to relax their bowel. Gently massage your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction. Make firm but gentle circular motions from the belly button outwards. Lie your baby on their back and gently move their legs backwards and forwards in a ‘bicycle’ motion.

What is the preferred laxative while breastfeeding?

Stool softeners such as docusate or osmotic laxatives such as lactulose, glycerol or macrogol are safe to use at the recommended doses while breastfeeding. Stimulant laxatives such as senna or biscodyl may pass into the breast milk and cause diarrhoea in your baby.

Does MiraLAX affect birth control?

Using laxatives, which cause you to have a bowel movement (poop), may make your birth control pills less effective. This is because your body doesn’t have time to fully absorb the pill. Vomiting or having diarrhea for more than 48 hours (2 days) can also lower the effectiveness of your pill.

Who Cannot take MiraLAX?

You should not use MiraLAX if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol, or if you have a bowel obstruction or intestinal blockage. If you have any of these conditions, you could have dangerous or life-threatening side effects from polyethylene glycol 3350.

What simple trick empties your bowels immediately?

Try These Tricks for Quick Bowel Movement Stimulation

  • Drink coffee. Regarding drinks that make you poop, coffee is probably the first that comes to mind.
  • Squat when you poop.
  • Use a fiber supplement.
  • Take a stimulant laxative.
  • Take an osmotic laxative.
  • Take a lubricant laxative.
  • Try a stool softener.
  • Use a suppository.

Can nursing mothers take MiraLAX?

MiraLAX is a brand-name powder prescribed to help treat constipation. It contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). MiraLAX is safe to take during pregnancy and 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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