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Is Tums ok while breastfeeding?

Understanding Tums and Breastfeeding
For many breastfeeding mothers, managing discomfort from heartburn or acid reflux can be a challenge. Tums, a popular over-the-counter antacid, is often considered for relief. But is it safe to use while breastfeeding? The consensus among healthcare professionals is generally reassuring.
Safety of Tums During Breastfeeding
According to medical guidelines, Tums can be safely taken while breastfeeding. The ingredients in Tums, primarily calcium carbonate, are not known to pose significant risks to nursing infants. In fact, the amount of calcium and other minerals that might be transferred through breast milk is typically minimal and unlikely to exceed what infants receive from other dietary sources.
Healthcare providers often recommend that breastfeeding mothers take Tums as needed, but they advise planning doses around feeding schedules. This strategy helps to minimize any potential effects on the baby.
Absorption and Effects on Infants
Research indicates that the absorption of the active ingredients in Tums by infants is quite low. While there is limited published data specifically detailing the transfer of aluminum, calcium, or magnesium into breast milk during maternal antacid therapy, the consensus is that these minerals are present in amounts that are not harmful.
Moreover, the oral absorption of aluminum, which is a concern with some antacids, is generally low in infants, further alleviating worries about potential toxicity.
Recommendations for Use
While Tums is considered safe, it is always best for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication, including over-the-counter options like Tums. This ensures that any specific health conditions or individual circumstances are taken into account.
In summary, Tums is a viable option for breastfeeding mothers seeking relief from heartburn, with minimal risk to their infants. As always, maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals is key to ensuring both mother and baby remain healthy and comfortable.

What can a nursing mother take for nausea?

Treating nausea during breastfeeding

  • Cyclizine.
  • Hyoscine hydrobromide.
  • Metoclopramide.
  • Ondansetron.
  • Prochlorperazine.
  • Promethazine.

Is Tums safe to take while breastfeeding?

In addition, oral absorption of aluminum and magnesium is poor. Because of these factors, reviewers generally consider antacid use during breastfeeding to be acceptable. [1-3] No special precautions are required.

When should I avoid Tums?

Talk to your provider or pharmacist before taking antacids on a regular basis if:

  • You have kidney disease, high blood pressure, or heart disease.
  • You are on a low-sodium diet.
  • You are already taking calcium.
  • You are taking other medicines every day.
  • You have had kidney stones.

What is the best medicine for upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Cimetidine, ranitidine, famotidine
Ranitidine and famotidine appear to carry minimal risk in pregnant women,6, 7 cimetidine has a small risk. Similarly, ranitidine and famotidine are the preferred choices in breastfeeding women.

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.

How do you treat acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Helping your baby with reflux

  1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
  2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
  3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
  4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)

What not to take 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.

Can I take Pepto and Tums while breastfeeding?

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

What medications decrease milk supply?

High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol) Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Testosterone. Estrogen.

Are Tums safe for pregnancy?

TUMS provides safe heartburn relief for women who are pregnant. TUMS also adds calcium to your body. When you are pregnant, your body may need between 1,000 mg and 1,300 mg of elemental calcium per day. Be sure to take TUMS at a different time than you take iron supplements.

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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