What can I take if I have a cold and Im breastfeeding?

Navigating Cold Remedies While Breastfeeding
When you’re a breastfeeding mother battling a cold, the question of what medications are safe to take can be daunting. Fortunately, there are several options available that can help alleviate your symptoms without compromising your baby’s health.
Breastfeeding is Safe During Illness
First and foremost, it’s important to note that continuing to breastfeed while you have a cold is not only safe but also beneficial for your baby. Breast milk contains antibodies that can help protect your infant from illness, making it advantageous to maintain breastfeeding even when you’re feeling under the weather. Experts recommend that mothers keep breastfeeding through common illnesses, including colds and flu, as it supports both maternal and infant health.
Safe Medications for Cold Symptoms
If you’re looking for relief from cold symptoms, there are several medications that are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Over-the-counter options like paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen can be taken at normal adult doses to help manage fever and pain. These medications are effective and do not pose significant risks to your breastfeeding infant.
For symptoms like a sore throat or cough, cough drops and throat sprays (such as Chloraseptic) are also deemed safe for use while nursing. These can provide localized relief without affecting your milk supply.
Herbal Remedies and Caution
Some mothers may consider herbal supplements like Elderberry, which is often used to shorten the duration of cold symptoms. While it is likely safe for breastfeeding, there is limited research on its effects on nursing infants, so caution is advised. Always consult with a healthcare provider before introducing any new supplements.
What to Avoid
While many medications are safe, there are some that breastfeeding mothers should avoid. Products containing codeine and aspirin are not recommended, as they can pose risks to both the mother and the baby. Additionally, oral decongestants may not be advisable, as they can potentially interfere with milk supply.
Alternative Approaches
In addition to medication, maintaining hydration and getting plenty of rest are crucial for recovery. If you find yourself too ill to nurse, consider expressing your milk and having someone else feed your baby with a clean cup or spoon. This ensures your baby continues to receive the benefits of breast milk even if you’re unable to breastfeed directly.
Conclusion
In summary, while dealing with a cold as a breastfeeding mother can be challenging, there are safe options available to help you feel better. Medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen, along with throat lozenges, can provide relief without endangering your baby’s health. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about any medications or remedies, and remember that breastfeeding during illness is not only safe but also beneficial for your child.

How do you treat a cold in a breastfed baby?

Self care

1. Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration.
2. Suction your baby’s nose. Keep your baby’s nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe.
3. Try nasal saline drops. Your baby’s doctor may recommend saline nasal drops to moisten nasal passages and loosen thick nasal mucus.
4. Moisten the air.

Can I take emergen C while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

Is Mucinex safe to take while breastfeeding?

The expectorant guaifenesin and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan are often found together in products like Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM. Both of these medications have been used while breastfeeding. Small, occasional doses of antihistamines are acceptable while nursing.

What is the safest decongestant for breastfeeding?

Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray is a nasal decongestant that can be used safely while breastfeeding. Because the medicine is not absorbed well from the nasal passages, it doesn’t have the same effect on milk supply that decongestants taken by mouth can have.

Does Zyrtec dry up breast milk?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

Which tablet is best for a cold during breastfeeding?

Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby. Guaifenesin is an expectorant.

Is Tylenol cold and flu ok while breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Some cold and influenza (flu) medicines.

Is Mucinex safe for breastfeeding?

The expectorant guaifenesin and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan are often found together in products like Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM. Both of these medications have been used while breastfeeding. Small, occasional doses of antihistamines are acceptable while nursing.

What can I take while breastfeeding for a cold?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.