What can you take for a cold when breastfeeding?

Navigating Cold Remedies While Breastfeeding
When a breastfeeding mother catches a cold, the challenge of managing symptoms while ensuring the safety of her infant can be daunting. Fortunately, there are several options available that can help alleviate discomfort without compromising the health of the baby.
Understanding the Safety of Medications
First and foremost, it’s important to note that most common cold viruses, including the one that causes the typical cold, do not pass into breast milk. This means that breastfeeding can continue safely even when a mother is feeling under the weather. However, the choice of medication is crucial, as some can affect both the mother and the infant.
Recommended Over-the-Counter Medications
For pain relief, paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) and ibuprofen are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. These medications can help reduce fever and alleviate body aches associated with colds. Staying hydrated and resting are also essential components of recovery.
When it comes to managing nasal congestion, first-generation antihistamines can be effective. They help dry up a runny nose and watery eyes, but mothers should be cautious as these can cause drowsiness in both the mother and potentially irritability in the infant if breastfeeding occurs shortly after taking them.
Herbal Supplements and Alternatives
Some mothers may consider herbal remedies like Elderberry, which is often used to shorten the duration of cold symptoms. While it is likely safe for breastfeeding, there is a lack of significant studies on its effects on infants or milk production. Therefore, caution is advised, and it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before using such supplements.
What to Avoid
Certain medications should be avoided altogether. Codeine and aspirin are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to potential risks to the infant. Additionally, oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine may not be advisable, as they can affect milk supply and may lead to other side effects.
Conclusion
In summary, while dealing with a cold, breastfeeding mothers have several safe options to manage their symptoms. Medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen are effective and safe, while first-generation antihistamines can be used with caution. Herbal remedies should be approached carefully, and certain medications must be avoided to ensure the health and safety of both mother and child. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice tailored to individual circumstances.

What is safe to breastfeed with a cold sore?

Breastfeeding and cold sores
Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.

What is safe to take for a cold while breastfeeding?

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.

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.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick and breastfeeding?

In fact, your body will actually start producing antibodies for those illnesses and pass those antibodies through your milk to your baby, effectively reducing the risk and severity of those illnesses to your infant and/or toddler.

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.

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.

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.

Can breastfeeding moms take DayQuil?

Dextromethorphan. This cold medicine is considered safe for breastfeeding moms and babies. Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects.

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.