What can I take for reflux while breastfeeding?

Understanding Reflux While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can be a beautiful experience, but it can also come with challenges, particularly when it comes to managing reflux in infants. Reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort for the baby. This condition is not uncommon, and many breastfeeding mothers find themselves seeking ways to alleviate reflux symptoms for their little ones.
Dietary Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
One of the first steps a breastfeeding mother can take to help manage her baby’s reflux is to evaluate her diet. Certain foods can exacerbate reflux symptoms in infants. While every baby is different, common culprits include:
– Spicy foods
– Citrus fruits
– Tomato-based products
– Chocolate
– Caffeine
By avoiding these foods, mothers may notice an improvement in their baby’s reflux symptoms. Additionally, keeping a food diary can help identify specific triggers that may be affecting the baby.
Medications and Remedies
When dietary changes are not enough, some mothers may consider medications. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding. Some over-the-counter antacids are generally considered safe, but they should be used with caution and under medical advice.
For more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe medications that reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers. These medications can be effective in managing reflux symptoms, but again, it is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Feeding Techniques and Positions
In addition to dietary adjustments and medications, feeding techniques can play a significant role in managing reflux. Experts recommend several strategies:
– Upright Feeding: Keeping the baby in an upright position during and after feeding can help reduce the likelihood of reflux. This position utilizes gravity to keep the milk down.
– Frequent, Smaller Feedings: Instead of large feedings, offering smaller amounts more frequently can help prevent the stomach from becoming too full, which can trigger reflux.
– Burping: Regularly burping the baby during and after feeds can help release any trapped air, which may contribute to reflux.
Conclusion
Managing reflux while breastfeeding involves a combination of dietary adjustments, careful consideration of medications, and employing effective feeding techniques. Each baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Therefore, it is essential for mothers to remain observant and consult healthcare professionals to tailor a plan that best suits their needs and those of their baby. By taking these steps, mothers can help create a more comfortable feeding experience for their little ones, ultimately enhancing the breastfeeding journey.

What can I take for acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Antacid and alginate preparations
There is extensive experience of use of antacids during breastfeeding and they are considered first-line options for managing heartburn or dyspepsia. Alginates and simeticone are also considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding.

Can I use Preparation H while breastfeeding?

Products to treat haemorrhoids can be used by breastfeeding mothers without affecting breastfeeding. The absorption of the ingredient drugs from the rectum will not produce significant levels in breastmilk and can be used as necessary for the mother’s comfort (morning and night and after bowel motions).

Does gripe water help reflux?

Does gripe water help with reflux? Many gripe water brands contain baking soda, an antacid. Antacids can help calm stomach pain caused by too much acid in the stomach. But for most babies, stomachaches aren’t caused by stomach acid, so baking soda won’t help.

How do you treat reflux in breastfed babies?

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)

Is Pepcid safe while breastfeeding?

Summary of Use during Lactation
Famotidine doses in breastmilk result in infant dosages that are lower than those used in newborn infants. Famotidine would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. No special precautions are required.

Will Pepcid decrease milk supply?

[3] Oral famotidine usually does not affect serum prolactin levels, but rare cases of hyperprolactinemia and galactorrhea have been reported.

Which antacid is safe during breastfeeding?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.

Can I use hydrocortisone cream while breastfeeding?

It’s unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby. Wash your hands after using the treatment and before picking up your baby. Treatments for piles and itchy bottom containing hydrocortisone may also contain other ingredients such as local anaesthetics. It’s still OK to use them while breastfeeding.

Is Tums OK for breastfeeding moms?

The most recent research indicates that most medications can be used safely during breastfeeding. These include (but are not limited to): Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums)

What foods make reflux worse in breastfed babies?

Citrus fruit, tomatoes, caffeine containing drinks (tea, coffee, coke) and chocolate may also need to be avoided by the breast-feeding mother of a reflux baby. Remember that all babies are different and different babies react to different foods – the list above is a guideline only.