What can I take for constipation while breastfeeding?

Understanding Constipation While Breastfeeding
Constipation is a common issue that many new mothers face, particularly during the postpartum period. The hormonal changes, physical recovery from childbirth, and the demands of caring for a newborn can all contribute to digestive challenges. For breastfeeding mothers, addressing constipation requires careful consideration of what is safe for both the mother and her baby.
Safe Remedies for Constipation
When it comes to alleviating constipation while breastfeeding, several options are generally considered safe:
1. Dietary Adjustments: Increasing fiber intake is one of the most effective ways to combat constipation. Foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help promote regular bowel movements. Staying hydrated is equally important; drinking plenty of water can soften stool and facilitate easier passage.
2. Stool Softeners: Many healthcare providers recommend stool softeners as a safe option for breastfeeding mothers. These medications work by drawing water into the stool, making it easier to pass. Common stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, are typically considered safe during breastfeeding.
3. Laxatives: While some laxatives are safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is crucial to choose those that are gentle and non-stimulant. Osmotic laxatives, like polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX), are often recommended because they work by increasing the water content in the stool without causing cramping. However, stimulant laxatives should be used with caution and ideally under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
4. Natural Remedies: Some mothers find relief through natural remedies such as prunes or prune juice, which are known for their laxative effects. Additionally, incorporating probiotics into the diet may help improve gut health and promote regularity.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many remedies are safe, it is essential for breastfeeding mothers to consult with a healthcare provider if constipation persists or is accompanied by severe pain, bleeding, or other concerning symptoms. These could indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires medical attention.
Conclusion
Constipation can be an uncomfortable and frustrating experience for breastfeeding mothers, but there are several safe and effective strategies to alleviate it. By making dietary changes, utilizing stool softeners, and considering gentle laxatives, mothers can find relief while ensuring the safety of their breastfeeding journey. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment to ensure it aligns with your individual health needs.

How do you treat constipation while breastfeeding?

Exercise – Walking, swimming, cycling, yoga will ease constipation and make you feel healthier. Try to be active and get some exercise every day. Fluids – Pregnant and breastfeeding women need to increase their fluid intake, so drink at least 7-8 glasses/day and even more in hot or humid weather.

What are natural laxatives for postpartum?

Tips to help you deal with postpartum constipation.
Get plenty of rest. Eat prunes (a natural laxative) Drink a warm liquid every morning. Use mild laxatives or fiber supplements if other methods do not work.

What is the best stool softener for breastfeeding moms?

In fact, Pepcid and Zantac are commonly used by pediatricians for babies. 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.

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.

What can a breastfeeding mom take to poop?

Any laxative can be used during breastfeeding as most are either not absorbed or minimally absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract leading to low or negligible levels in breast milk. Prucalopride can be used with caution whilst breastfeeding as it is excreted into breast milk in small levels.

Is Miralax safe for breastfeeding?

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.

How to immediately soften stool?

Home remedies include increasing your fiber intake or taking a laxative, using a suppository, or taking a stool softener. Trying out a squat position, doing light exercise, or performing a colonic massage may also help. A doctor can check for other conditions affecting constipation and prescribe medication to help.

How do you relieve constipation in breastfed babies?

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.

Will mother’s constipation affect a breastfed baby?

Can a nursing mother’s diet cause — or relieve — a baby’s constipation? The short answer is probably not. According to a 2017 study of 145 women in the Korean Journal of Pediatrics , there are no foods a breastfeeding mom needs to avoid unless the baby has an obvious negative reaction to it.