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What can I take for parasites while breastfeeding?

Understanding Parasite Treatment While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a critical period for both mother and infant, and when faced with parasitic infections, it raises important questions about treatment options. The safety of medications during this time is paramount, as many substances can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the nursing infant.
Common Parasitic Infections
Parasitic infections can range from intestinal worms, such as threadworms, to more complex infections like amebiasis and cryptosporidiosis. Each type of parasite may require different treatment approaches, and the implications for breastfeeding mothers can vary significantly.
Treatment Options
1. Medications:
– Antiparasitic Drugs: Some antiparasitic medications are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. For instance, treatments for threadworms, which are common in adults and children, can often be administered without significant risk to the breastfeeding infant. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for specific recommendations tailored to individual circumstances.
– Antibiotics: In cases where a parasitic infection is accompanied by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be necessary. Many antibiotics are compatible with breastfeeding, but it is essential to discuss this with a healthcare professional to ensure the chosen antibiotic is safe.
2. Natural Remedies:
– Some mothers may consider herbal or natural remedies for parasite cleansing. However, the efficacy and safety of these treatments during breastfeeding are not well-studied, and medical guidance is strongly recommended before starting any such regimen.
The Role of Breast Milk
Interestingly, breastfeeding can also provide some protective benefits against certain parasitic infections. Research has shown that breast milk contains specific antibodies that can help protect infants from infections like cryptosporidiosis and amebiasis. This passive immunity is a significant advantage of breastfeeding, especially in regions where parasitic infections are prevalent.
Consultation is Key
Given the complexities involved in treating parasitic infections while breastfeeding, it is crucial for mothers to consult healthcare professionals. They can provide personalized advice based on the type of infection, the severity of symptoms, and the overall health of both mother and child.
In summary, while there are treatment options available for parasitic infections during breastfeeding, the safety of these treatments must be carefully evaluated. The protective benefits of breast milk also highlight the importance of maintaining breastfeeding whenever possible, even in the face of health challenges.

Does deworming affect milk production?

The average milk yield (litre/day/cow) significantly increased, which was 1.22 litres per day for treated cows and 1.06 litres for treated buffaloes. The intervention effect of deworming among cows was 0.79 (14.06 per cent increment) and for buffaloes was 0.42 (8.32 per cent increment).

What worm medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Mebendazole (Vermox®, Ovex®, Pripsen tablets®).
The BNF states that the amount excreted into breastmilk is too small to be harmful although the manufacturer advises avoidance under the limitations of licensing.

How to get rid of parasites while breastfeeding?

There are two medications that are commonly used to treat worm infections and they are both available over the counter from a pharmacy. The generic names are Mebendazole and Pyrantel. Mebendazole is the first preference as studies in human pregnancy show no increase in adverse effects to the mother or fetus.

What anti parasite medication is safe while breastfeeding?

Both pyrantel and mebendazole are safe to use to treat worm infections while breastfeeding as they are poorly absorbed from the gut and unlikely to be passed into breast milk.

Can a lactating mother deworm herself?

The World Health Organization recommends deworming to reduce soil‐transmitted helminth (STH)‐attributable morbidity in women of reproductive age, including pregnant and lactating women, to reduce blood loss, iron deficiency anaemia and nutrient malabsorption.

Can parasites affect breast milk?

While breastfeeding
Although it has never been documented, Toxoplasma could be in that blood and infect the infant through her breast milk. However, the likelihood of human milk transmission is minimal.

How to get rid of parasites while pregnant?

The most common medications for treatment during pregnancy, Praziquantel, and Niclosamide, are both in risk category B. Most often, doctors will prescribe these medications if the risk of withholding treatment outweighs the risk of the potential drug effects to the fetus during pregnancy.

Can parasites affect my baby?

Some examples are given below: Infection with Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite found in undercooked meat, cat feces, soil, and untreated water can lead to severe brain and eye disorders in a fetus when a pregnant woman becomes newly infected.

How can I detox my body while breastfeeding?

How to Safely Detox During Breastfeeding?

  1. Stay Hydrated. Drink lots of water and keep yourself hydrated.
  2. Add More Fruits and Vegetables to Your Diet.
  3. Include Foods Rich In Protein, Fiber, and Healthy Fats.
  4. Take Supplements and Other Foods.
  5. Skip Processed Foods.
  6. Exclude Legumes, Dairy, and Grains.
  7. Rest and Sleep.
  8. Oil Pulling.

How to deworm at home naturally?

There are many common foods that can help you get rid of the worms without affecting your body at all.

  1. Ginger- Ginger is available in all Indian homes most of the time.
  2. Garlic- Garlic has a special ability to fight parasites such as nematodes.
  3. Cloves-
  4. Carrots-
  5. Coconut water-
  6. Honey-
  7. Fermented food-
  8. Edible seeds-
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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