What constipation medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Constipation Treatment While Breastfeeding
For new mothers navigating the challenges of breastfeeding, constipation can be an uncomfortable and distressing issue. Fortunately, there are safe options available for treating constipation that won’t compromise the health of the breastfeeding infant.
Safe Laxatives for Breastfeeding Mothers
When it comes to laxatives, stool softeners are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. One of the most commonly recommended stool softeners is Colace (docusate sodium). This medication works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making it easier to pass without stimulating the intestines too aggressively, which is crucial for nursing mothers.
In addition to stool softeners, osmotic laxatives like Miralax (polyethylene glycol) are also deemed safe for use during breastfeeding. These laxatives work by drawing water into the bowel, which helps to soften the stool and promote bowel movements. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication, even over-the-counter options.
Medications to Avoid
While some laxatives are safe, breastfeeding mothers should avoid stimulant laxatives that contain ingredients like senna or cascara. These can lead to cramping and may not be effective over time. Additionally, it’s important to steer clear of any medications that could potentially affect milk supply or the infant’s health, such as certain pain relievers and cold medications.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
The key takeaway for breastfeeding mothers dealing with constipation is to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication. This ensures that the chosen treatment is safe for both the mother and the baby. Healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and circumstances.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers experiencing constipation have safe options available, primarily in the form of stool softeners like Colace and osmotic laxatives like Miralax. Avoiding stimulant laxatives and consulting with healthcare providers are essential steps in ensuring both maternal comfort and infant safety. By taking these precautions, mothers can effectively manage constipation while continuing to provide the best care for their babies.

Can I use Miralax while breastfeeding?

Avoid constipation.
She suggests using a laxative like Miralax (rather than a stool softener) daily until the constipation subsides. It’s safe for breastfeeding moms as well.

What simple trick empties your bowels immediately?

Try These Tricks for Quick Bowel Movement Stimulation

• Drink coffee. Regarding drinks that make you poop, coffee is probably the first that comes to mind.
• Squat when you poop.
• Use a fiber supplement.
• Take a stimulant laxative.
• Take an osmotic laxative.
• Take a lubricant laxative.
• Try a stool softener.
• Use a suppository.

Is Preparation H OK for pregnancy?

Preparation H Medicated Wipes for Women provide effective relief for the burning and itching of hemorrhoids during pregnancy and following childbirth.

How do you relieve constipation in breastfed babies?

Give your baby a warm bath to relax their bowel. Gently massage your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction. Make firm but gentle circular motions from the belly button outwards. Lie your baby on their back and gently move their legs backwards and forwards in a ‘bicycle’ motion.

Can I use Preparation H while breastfeeding?

Products to treat haemorrhoids can be used by breastfeeding mothers without affecting breastfeeding. The absorption of the ingredient drugs from the rectum will not produce significant levels in breastmilk and can be used as necessary for the mother’s comfort (morning and night and after bowel motions).

What can I take for constipation while breastfeeding?

Stimulant laxatives

• Bisacodyl. Show. Preferred choice. Bisacodyl can be used during breastfeeding.
• Docusate. Show. Preferred choice. Docusate can be used during breastfeeding.
• Glycerol suppositories. Show. Preferred choice.
• Senna. Show. Preferred choice.
• Sodium picosulfate. Show. Preferred choice.

Can you take bowel prep while breastfeeding?

It is acceptable to breastfeed as normal during bowel prep. The mother should drink freely of the allowed clear fluids. Someone may be needed to look after the baby during rapid need to evacuate bowels – unless you have taken these products you cant begin to understand the urgency!

How do you help a breastfed baby with constipation?

Give your baby a warm bath to relax their bowel. Gently massage your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction. Make firm but gentle circular motions from the belly button outwards. Lie your baby on their back and gently move their legs backwards and forwards in a ‘bicycle’ motion.

Is dulcolax safe for breastfeeding moms?

DULCOLAX nor its metabolites are passed into breast milk. Therefore, DULCOLAX can be used during breastfeeding. However, use the medicine only, if necessary, under the supervision of your doctor, after your doctor has assessed the expected benefit for you in relation to possible risk to the infant.

What is the preferred laxative while breastfeeding?

Stool softeners such as docusate or osmotic laxatives such as lactulose, glycerol or macrogol are safe to use at the recommended doses while breastfeeding. Stimulant laxatives such as senna or biscodyl may pass into the breast milk and cause diarrhoea in your baby.