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What can I take for nausea and vomiting while breastfeeding?

Understanding Nausea and Vomiting While Breastfeeding
Experiencing nausea and vomiting while breastfeeding can be distressing for new mothers. Fortunately, there are several options available for managing these symptoms safely. It’s essential to consider both the effectiveness of the treatment and its safety for breastfeeding.
Safe Medications for Nausea and Vomiting
When it comes to medications, some anti-emetics can be used with caution during breastfeeding. The choice of medication often depends on the clinical situation and the health of the infant. For instance, prochlorperazine, commonly known by brand names such as Buccastem® and Stemetil®, is frequently prescribed to alleviate nausea and vomiting. This medication is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Another option is ondansetron, which is often used for nausea following surgery or chemotherapy. Studies indicate that ondansetron does not adversely affect breastfeeding and has not been linked to negative outcomes in infants.
Additionally, loperamide (Imodium®) can be used to manage diarrhea that may accompany nausea and vomiting, and rehydration solutions like Dioralyte® can help prevent dehydration, which is crucial for both mother and baby.
Non-Medication Remedies
In addition to medications, there are non-pharmacological approaches that can help manage nausea. Many mothers find relief by nibbling on small snacks every one to two hours, a strategy reminiscent of managing morning sickness during pregnancy. Staying hydrated is also vital; sipping clear fluids can help settle the stomach.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many treatments are available, it’s important for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any medication. This is particularly crucial if the nausea and vomiting are severe or persistent, as they could indicate an underlying condition that needs attention.
In summary, while nausea and vomiting can be challenging for breastfeeding mothers, there are effective and safe treatment options available. Medications like prochlorperazine and ondansetron, along with non-medication strategies, can provide relief while ensuring the safety of both mother and child. Always consult with a healthcare provider to tailor the best approach for your specific situation.

What can I take for sick while breastfeeding?

Safe pain relievers for breastfeeding moms
Advil or Motrin are the best options for symptoms like fever or a headache, since infants can tolerate higher doses, and much lower levels end up in breast milk. Acetaminophen. Tylenol is a good choice, since it’s unlikely to cause side effects in babies.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick and breastfeeding?

In fact, your body will actually start producing antibodies for those illnesses and pass those antibodies through your milk to your baby, effectively reducing the risk and severity of those illnesses to your infant and/or toddler.

What to do if vomiting and breastfeeding?

If you have gastroenteritis:
If you come down with gastroenteritis continue to nurse your baby. Although you are ill, your milk will provide your baby with protection against the virus. There is no specific treatment for viral gastroenteritis except rest and drinking plenty of fluids.

What motion sickness medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Hyoscine hydrobromide and breastfeeding
If you are only taking occasional doses of hyoscine hydrobromide for a short time, for example for travel sickness, it’s OK to use while breastfeeding and your baby does not need to be monitored for side effects.

Does a stomach bug affect breast milk?

A person can usually keep breastfeeding their baby while they have the stomach flu. In fact, doing so could be beneficial. When a person’s body is fighting a virus, it creates antibodies. These antibodies are present in breast milk and can pass to a baby who consumes it.

What can a breastfeeding mom take for nausea?

Treating nausea during breastfeeding

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

When should Zofran not be used?

You should not use Zofran if you are allergic to ondansetron or to similar medicines such as dolasetron (Anzemet), granisetron (Kytril), or palonosetron (Aloxi). Zofran orally disintegrating tablets may contain phenylalanine. Tell your doctor if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Can you take Zofran while breastfeeding?

Using Zofran for nausea isn’t usually considered a reason to stop breastfeeding. However, it may be wise to consider another drug that has been further researched, especially if you’re breastfeeding a newborn or preterm baby. Your healthcare provider can work with you to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

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 medicine can breastfeeding moms take for an upset stomach?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends kaolin-pectin products (such as Kaopectate) or loperamide products (such as Imodium) for nursing mothers with diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby.

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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