Is Pepto-Bismol safe for breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of Pepto-Bismol During Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding, managing health issues like stomach upset can become a pressing concern. One common over-the-counter remedy, Pepto-Bismol, is often questioned for its safety during this sensitive period.
What is Pepto-Bismol?
Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate, a compound used to alleviate symptoms such as nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea. While it is effective for many, its safety profile during breastfeeding raises significant concerns among healthcare professionals.
Concerns About Salicylates
The primary issue with Pepto-Bismol lies in its salicylate content. Salicylates, which are related to aspirin, can pass into breast milk. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises caution with salicylates while breastfeeding, highlighting potential harmful effects on infants. Experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers avoid Pepto-Bismol due to the risk of salicylate exposure to their babies.
Expert Recommendations
Healthcare professionals generally advise against the use of Pepto-Bismol during breastfeeding. The consensus is that while there may not be extensive studies directly linking the salicylates in Pepto-Bismol to adverse effects in breastfed infants, the potential risks warrant a precautionary approach. The NHS also explicitly states that Pepto-Bismol should not be taken by breastfeeding mothers.
Alternatives and Precautions
For mothers experiencing gastrointestinal distress, it is crucial to explore safer alternatives. Medications such as loperamide, found in Imodium, are considered safer options for managing diarrhea while breastfeeding. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare provider can help identify appropriate treatments that pose minimal risk to both mother and child.
Conclusion
In summary, while Pepto-Bismol is a popular remedy for digestive issues, its use during breastfeeding is generally discouraged due to the potential transfer of salicylates into breast milk. Mothers are encouraged to seek alternative treatments and consult healthcare professionals to ensure both their health and the safety of their breastfeeding infants.

What is the quickest way to get rid of a stomach bug baby?

You can treat stomach bugs at home by making sure your child keeps drinking fluids and gets plenty of rest. The best way to keep your child well hydrated is with an electrolyte-containing solution such as Pedialyte®. Have your child take small sips frequently — meaning every five minutes or so — throughout the day.

Will my upset stomach affect my baby while breastfeeding?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.

What can I take if I’m sick while breastfeeding?

Only a miniscule amount of ibuprofen or acetaminophen transfers to breastmilk, making these meds first-choice options for fever and headache while breastfeeding.

What can you take for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Medicines For Digestive Problems
Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby. For a sour stomach or heartburn, Tums and Rolaids are safe to use. Look for the ingredients calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

Can you take Pepto when breastfeeding?

Pepto-Bismol and breastfeeding
Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding.

What medicine can breastfeeding mom take for diarrhea?

Loperamide may be used while breastfeeding to treat the symptoms of diarrhoea. There is no need to stop breastfeeding if you have diarrhoea. If the diarrhoea is profuse, watery, bloody, accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or severe abdominal pain, or persists for longer than 48 hours you should see your doctor.

What can you 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 Pepto-Bismol safe for pregnancy?

The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate. According to a 2014 review in American Family Physician, you should avoid taking Pepto-Bismol during the second and third trimesters of your pregnancy. This is because it raises your risk of bleeding problems when you take it closer to delivery.

Who should not take Pepto-Bismol?

Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for some people. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have: ever had an allergic reaction to bismuth subsalicylate or any of the other ingredients in Pepto-Bismol or Pepti Calm.

What are the nursing considerations for Pepto-Bismol?

Nursing Considerations: Bismuth subsalicylate contains salicylate. It should be avoided if the client has an allergy to salicylates (including aspirin) or if the client is taking other salicylate products such as aspirin. It should not be used if the client has an ulcer, a bleeding problem, or bloody or black stool.