Page Content
- What can I take to break up mucus while breastfeeding?
- What is the best decongestant to dry up breast milk?
- What is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?
- How to get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?
- Will Mucinex dry up my breast milk?
- Is mucinex OK for breastfeeding?
- What decongestant is safe while breastfeeding?
- How to dry up milk supply without getting mastitis?
- Can I take emergen C while breastfeeding?
- Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?
Managing Mucus While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can be a challenging time for new mothers, especially when dealing with common ailments like colds that lead to mucus buildup. Fortunately, there are several safe and effective strategies to alleviate mucus while ensuring the health of both mother and baby.
Natural Remedies
One of the simplest and most effective ways to manage mucus is through hydration. Drinking plenty of clear liquids, particularly warm ones like herbal teas or lemon water, can help break up mucus and keep you hydrated. Honey is another natural remedy that acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen mucus. Adding honey to warm beverages can provide soothing relief.
Additionally, a saltwater gargle can temporarily relieve a sore throat, which often accompanies mucus buildup. Dissolving 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water and gargling can be beneficial.
Over-the-Counter Medications
If natural remedies are insufficient, certain over-the-counter medications can be considered. Guaifenesin, commonly found in products like Robitussin or Mucinex, is known to help loosen mucus. While there are limited studies on its effects during breastfeeding, its low oral absorption suggests that it is unlikely to affect breast milk significantly.
When choosing medications, it’s crucial to avoid those containing codeine or aspirin, as these can pose risks to breastfeeding infants. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding and can help manage any accompanying discomfort.
Rest and Recovery
Amidst all these remedies, rest is vital. Although it may be challenging for new mothers to find time to rest, allowing your body to recuperate can significantly aid in recovery from illness.
In summary, managing mucus while breastfeeding involves a combination of natural remedies, safe medications, and adequate rest. By staying hydrated, using honey and saltwater gargles, and considering appropriate over-the-counter options, mothers can effectively alleviate mucus symptoms while ensuring their breastfeeding journey continues smoothly.
What can I take to break up mucus while breastfeeding?
Yes, there are several ways to manage cold symptoms without medications while breastfeeding:
- Drink lots of water or other clear liquids. Clear liquids, especially warm ones, help break up mucus in your nose and chest.
- Take a hot, steamy shower.
- Use a humidifier.
- Try a saline nasal spray or neti pot.
- Rest.
What is the best decongestant to dry up breast milk?
The cold medication pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) may help reduce milk production. Researchers found that participants who took the pseudoephedrine had a significant reduction in breastmilk production compared to the participants who took a placebo (a pill that looks like medication but contains no medication).
What is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?
Non-sedating antihistamines are the preferred choice for a breastfeeding mother:
- Loratadine (Clarityn®) (Powell 2007, Hilbert 1997),
- Cetirizine (Zirtek®, BecoAllergy®, Piriteze®, Benadryl®) reaches low levels in breastmilk and is recommended by the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (Powell 2007)
How to get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?
Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:
- Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
- Gargle some salt water.
- If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.
Will Mucinex dry up my breast milk?
“It is best to avoid certain over-the-counter cough medications as they may decrease breast milk supply,” says Dr. Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk. Usually, antihistamines and nasal decongestants are the ingredients that have this effect on breastmilk.”
Is mucinex OK 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 decongestant is safe while 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.
How to dry up milk supply without getting mastitis?
If you stop removing milk from your breasts too fast, you can get clogged ducts, engorgement or a breast infection called mastitis. For this reason, you need to stop breastfeeding or pumping gradually to dry up your breasts. body from making milk: It is best to lessen your milk removal or not empty your breasts.
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.
Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?
Zyrtec, although generally safe, is not recommended during breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Possible side effects on the baby include irritation or lethargy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.