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What can I use for UTI while breastfeeding?

Understanding UTIs While Breastfeeding
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be a common concern for new mothers, especially during the postpartum period. If you’re breastfeeding and facing a UTI, it’s crucial to know what treatment options are safe and effective for both you and your baby.
Safe Antibiotics for Breastfeeding Mothers
When it comes to treating UTIs, antibiotics are often necessary. Fortunately, many antibiotics are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. For instance, ampicillin and gentamicin are commonly prescribed and have shown no adverse effects on breastfeeding infants. Another effective option is trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX), which has a high success rate in treating UTIs and is compatible with breastfeeding.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best antibiotic for your specific situation, as they can provide guidance based on your health history and the severity of the infection.
Non-Antibiotic Remedies
In addition to antibiotics, there are several non-pharmaceutical approaches you can consider to alleviate UTI symptoms while breastfeeding. Cranberry juice and cranberry capsules are popular remedies that may help prevent UTIs and can be safely consumed during breastfeeding. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is also recommended, as it can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
Over-the-counter options, such as sodium nitrate sachets, may provide symptom relief and are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, it’s always best to discuss any over-the-counter treatments with your healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for your situation.
Conclusion
While dealing with a UTI can be uncomfortable, there are effective treatment options available for breastfeeding mothers. Antibiotics like ampicillin, gentamicin, and TMP/SMX are safe to use, and non-antibiotic remedies such as cranberry juice can also support your recovery. Always consult with a healthcare professional to tailor the treatment to your needs, ensuring both your health and that of your breastfeeding baby are prioritized.

What are the 5 warning signs of a bladder infection?

Lower urinary tract infection

  • feeling a strong urge to urinate (pee) and more often than usual, a constant, dull pain in the pubic region and pain when urinating (dysuria)
  • cloudy urine (pee) or blood in your urine (haematuria)
  • urine that smells unusually unpleasant.
  • back pain.
  • a general sense of feeling unwell.

What can a nursing mother use to treat an infection?

The following antibiotics are all safe to take whilst breastfeeding;

  • Amoxycillin, Amoxil ®,
  • Azithromycin, Zithromax®,
  • Cefaclor, Distaclor®,
  • Cefuroxime, Zinnat®
  • Cephalexin, Cefalexin, Keflex®,
  • Cephradine, Velosef®,
  • Clarithromycin, Klaricid®,
  • Co-amoxiclav, Augmentin®,

What medication is used for UTI in nursing?

Treatment

  • Trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Bactrim DS)
  • Fosfomycin (Monurol)
  • Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin, Macrobid, Furadantin)
  • Cephalexin.
  • Ceftriaxone.

What can a breastfeeding mom take for a UTI?

Cranberry juice and cranberry capsules can also be taken during breastfeeding. Most antibiotics for urinary tract infections are safe to use during breastfeeding.

Which antibiotic is safe during breastfeeding?

All penicillin antibiotics can be used during breastfeeding with precautionary infant monitoring. Flucloxacillin, phenoxymethylpenicillin (penicillin V) and the broad-spectrum penicillins, such as amoxicillin and ampicillin, are the preferred choices as there is more evidence and experience to support their use.

What is the most common infection in nursing homes?

The UTI
The UTI is perhaps the most common infection in the nursing home and is the most over-diagnosed infection among nursing home residents.

How can I flush out a UTI at home?

The most common remedies you’d want to try out when treating a UTI include:

  1. Drinking Plenty of Water. Drinking plenty of water increases urine production.
  2. Cranberry Juice.
  3. Vitamin C.
  4. Probiotics.
  5. Baking Soda.
  6. Avoiding Irritants.
  7. Applying Heat.
  8. Emptying the Bladder Regularly.

Is cranberry juice good for UTI while breastfeeding?

Cranberry may be used to prevent urinary tract infections in breastfeeding mothers. There is no information on the safety and efficacy of the medicine in breastfeeding, but is considered safe to use at the recommended doses.

Can I take azo for UTI while breastfeeding?

The safety of phenazopyridine is not established in infants or during breastfeeding. Because it can cause methemoglobinemia, sulfhemoglobinemia, and hemolytic anemia, it should be avoided while breastfeeding, especially with an infant under 1 month of age or with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.

What is the fastest way a UTI can go away?

The only way to get rid of a UTI completely fast is through antibiotic treatment prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. While natural remedies such as vitamin C and cranberry products may help reduce symptoms, medication is needed to neutralize harmful bacteria and prevent further complications.

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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