Is MiraLAX safe when breastfeeding?

Understanding MiraLAX and Breastfeeding Safety
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 help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements.
Safety Profile of MiraLAX for Breastfeeding Mothers
Research and expert opinions suggest that MiraLAX is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. According to various sources, the medication is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream, which means it is unlikely to pass into breast milk in any meaningful amounts. This characteristic is crucial because it minimizes the risk of potential side effects for breastfeeding infants.
At normal doses, studies indicate that MiraLAX does not appear to cause adverse effects in breastfed children. This is reassuring for mothers who may be concerned about the implications of medication on their nursing babies. However, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication, including MiraLAX, to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs and circumstances.
Recommendations and Considerations
While MiraLAX is deemed safe, healthcare professionals often recommend that breastfeeding mothers discuss any medication use with their doctors. This is particularly important for those who may have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications that could interact with MiraLAX.
Additionally, some experts suggest that natural remedies for constipation, such as increased fiber intake and hydration, should also be considered as first-line treatments before resorting to laxatives.
Conclusion
In summary, MiraLAX is a viable option for breastfeeding mothers dealing with constipation, as it is unlikely to affect breastfed infants negatively. Nevertheless, the best practice remains to consult with a healthcare provider to tailor the approach to individual health needs. This ensures that both mother and child remain healthy and safe during the breastfeeding journey.

Does MiraLAX affect breast milk supply?

2) Stool softeners and laxatives (Miralax, Dulcolax, Colace, Surfak): Stool softeners are safe because they are not absorbed through the intestines to any extent, and therefore are not found in breast milk. 3) Anti-inflammatory medications (fever and/or pain):

Can you take MiraLAX postpartum?

Avoid constipation.
Chronic straining, especially if mom had a perineal tear, can put tension on the stitches and is hard on the pelvic floor muscles, Swenson says. She suggests using a laxative like Miralax (rather than a stool softener) daily until the constipation subsides. It’s safe for breastfeeding moms as well.

What should a breastfeeding mother eat to avoid constipation in a baby?

Constipation while breastfeeding remedies
Here are some tips to prevent and treat constipation: Add more fiber to their diet if your baby’s started solid foods, Switch from rice cereal to barley, which has more fiber. When you start introducing fruits and vegetables, try high-fiber ones like pureed prunes and peas.

Can I take MiraLAX postpartum?

Chronic straining, especially if mom had a perineal tear, can put tension on the stitches and is hard on the pelvic floor muscles, Swenson says. She suggests using a laxative like Miralax (rather than a stool softener) daily until the constipation subsides. It’s safe for breastfeeding moms as well.

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 help postpartum?

Many people fear the first bowel movement. If, however, you try not to poop you will find you get constipated and that will be uncomfortable whether you have stitches or not! We recommend using stool softeners until regular bowel movements are reestablished. You can use colace or Miralax.

Is it safe to take MiraLAX while pregnant?

“You can use stool softeners–Miralax and Colace are absolutely pregnancy safe,” Dr. Elborno says. “Because Miralax works by pulling water into the gut, it’s not something that’s affecting you systemically and that’s one of the reasons it’s safe,” she says.

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 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.

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.