What can you take for a headache while breastfeeding?

Understanding Headaches During Breastfeeding
For many new mothers, the joy of breastfeeding can sometimes be overshadowed by the discomfort of headaches. Whether due to hormonal changes, fatigue, or stress, headaches can be a common issue in the postpartum period. Fortunately, there are safe and effective ways to manage this pain while continuing to breastfeed.
Safe Medications for Headaches
When it comes to treating headaches during breastfeeding, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are generally considered safe. Medications like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) can effectively alleviate tension and migraine headaches without posing significant risks to the nursing infant. However, it’s important to avoid aspirin, as it is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.
In addition to NSAIDs, caffeine can also be beneficial. It is an ingredient in many over-the-counter headache medications and can help relieve headaches. A moderate amount of caffeine, such as a cup of coffee or caffeinated tea, is typically safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Non-Pharmacological Approaches
Beyond medication, lifestyle changes and non-drug therapies can provide relief. Rest is crucial; many mothers find that taking naps when their baby sleeps can help prevent fatigue-induced headaches. Additionally, experimenting with different breastfeeding positions, such as the laid-back nursing position or side-lying, can help mothers relax and reduce tension that may contribute to headaches.
The Role of Hormones and Stress
It’s also worth noting that hormonal fluctuations after childbirth can trigger headaches, including migraines. Some women may experience a recurrence of migraines during breastfeeding, although for others, these headaches may improve. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or gentle yoga, can also be beneficial in reducing headache frequency and severity.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers experiencing headaches have several safe options for relief. Over-the-counter NSAIDs and moderate caffeine consumption can be effective, while lifestyle adjustments like rest and stress management can further help mitigate headache symptoms. As always, it’s advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication or treatment to ensure it aligns with their individual health needs.

What does a pre-eclampsia headache feel like?

Dull or severe, throbbing headaches, often described as migraine-like that just won’t go away are cause for concern.

How long do lactation headaches last?

Some moms find that mild pain killers (like Tylenol or Advil) help and that the headaches become less severe or stop around two months postpartum. Other moms have problems with these “lactation headaches” until they wean.

Is ibuprofen or Tylenol safer for breastfeeding?

Most over-the-counter (also called OTC) medicine, like pain relievers and cold medicine, are OK to take when you’re breastfeeding. For example, OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) are safe to use when breastfeeding.

What helps with postpartum headaches?

Treatments for Postpartum Headaches

• Get more sleep.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Drink more water.
• Use a cool compress or ice pack.
• Rest in a dark and quiet room.
• Take small amounts pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Drink small amounts of caffeine.
• Get a massage.

How can I stop breastfeeding headaches?

Options include: Taking headache medicine: Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and over-the-counter NSAIDs (ibuprofen and naproxen sodium) can help ease headache symptoms. Ask your healthcare provider about what’s safe to take while breastfeeding (chestfeeding).

Does ibuprofen decrease milk supply?

Your baby receives very little of the medication in your milk, and very few meds will affect your milk supply. Tylenol and ibuprofen are fine to take for pain relief and fever, for example. For allergies and colds, most antihistamines are okay, but some decongestants can decrease your milk supply.

Does Tylenol affect breast milk supply?

So far, research has found no significant side effects for babies whose parents take Tylenol while breastfeeding. Additionally, Tylenol isn’t known to affect your milk supply, Dr.

What is safe to take for a headache while breastfeeding?

If you’re nursing, you may worry that taking something to get rid of the headache will affect your breastmilk or your baby. There are medications that are safe to take when you’re breastfeeding: Tylenol and ibuprofen like Advil being the safest.

What causes a headache for a nursing mother?

Your hormones may fluctuate while breastfeeding, leading to a headache. You may be physically or emotionally drained by the demands of breastfeeding, resulting in a headache. Lack of sleep or dehydration could be causing a tension or migraine headache.

Is Excedrin safe while breastfeeding?

Key Ingredients in Excedrin
Aspirin, on the other hand, is not recommended during breastfeeding due to the potential risk of bleeding in the infant. It can be transferred to breast milk and may cause harm to the baby, especially if they have a bleeding disorder or are premature.