What happens if you take Pepto while breastfeeding?

Understanding Pepto-Bismol and Breastfeeding
Pepto-Bismol, a popular over-the-counter medication, is commonly used to alleviate digestive issues such as nausea, heartburn, and upset stomach. However, for breastfeeding mothers, the question of safety regarding its use is paramount.
The Risks of Salicylates
The primary ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate, which contains salicylates—compounds related to aspirin. This raises concerns for breastfeeding mothers, as salicylates can pass into breast milk. Experts caution against the use of Pepto-Bismol while nursing due to the potential risks associated with salicylates, particularly the rare but serious Reye’s syndrome, which can affect children.
Immediate Effects on Breastfeeding
If a breastfeeding mother takes Pepto-Bismol, it is generally considered safe to continue breastfeeding immediately afterward. There is no need to “pump and dump” the milk, as the salicylates may only be present in breast milk for a limited time—typically up to two hours. However, the recommendation remains to avoid the medication altogether to minimize any risk to the infant.
Alternatives and Recommendations
Given the potential risks, healthcare professionals often suggest alternative remedies for digestive discomfort that are deemed safer for breastfeeding mothers. These alternatives may include lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, or other medications that do not contain salicylates.
In summary, while Pepto-Bismol can provide relief for digestive issues, its use during breastfeeding is not recommended due to the presence of salicylates and the associated risks. Mothers experiencing digestive problems should consult with healthcare providers to explore safer options that will not compromise their baby’s health.

What can nursing mothers take for an upset stomach?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends kaolin-pectin products (such as Kaopectate) or loperamide products (such as Imodium) for nursing mothers with diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby.

What happens if you accidentally take Pepto while pregnant?

After taking Pepto Bismol, a mother’s bloodstream contains about as much salicylate as if she had taken a dose of regular aspirin. Salicylate cross the placenta, so the baby can be exposed. The potential exists for low birth weight, jaundice, bleeding, and birth defects.

How long until Pepto is out of your system?

As it slowly makes its way out of your body you may see black poo. This side effect usually goes away when you stop taking the medicine but it may take several days. If your tongue or your poo is still black after you’ve stopped taking Pepto-Bismol for several days, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist.

What can a nursing mother take to flatten her tummy?

8 Healthy Ways To Lose Weight While Breastfeeding

• Drinking plenty of water every day.
• Getting as much sleep as you can.
• Eating a balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats.
• Incorporating moderate exercise into your daily routine.

What happens if you accidentally take Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Risks of Pepto Bismol While Breastfeeding
The main concern about taking Pepto Bismol while breastfeeding is that your baby may be exposed to the salicylates in the medication. Salicylates are an ingredient in aspirin and have been linked to Reye’s syndrome, an illness that can have very serious symptoms in children.

Can an upset stomach harm my unborn baby?

Can a stomach bug harm my unborn baby? While stomach bugs are typically unpleasant for pregnant women, they usually don’t pose a direct threat to the unborn baby. However, severe dehydration or complications from the illness could potentially impact the pregnancy.

Is Pepto-Bismol safe while breastfeeding for Reye’s syndrome?

There are currently no reports of Reye’s syndrome in babies exposed to bismuth subsalicylate and it is normally only used very short term for stomach upset. Breastfeeding mothers would be well advised to use alternative products to treat acute diarrhoea E.g. loperamine (Imodium®) if possible.

What can I take instead of Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Alternatives to Pepto-Bismol
These options may include ginger, peppermint tea, or pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B-6. You might also try anti-nausea bands that you wear on your wrists.

How long does Pepto-Bismol stay in your system?

A few days after you stop using Pepto-Bismol, your tongue discoloration should go away on its own, so you don’t really need to do anything. Pepto-Bismol is usually out of your system in one day, but it can take several days for the side effect to go away.

Will my upset stomach affect my baby while breastfeeding?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.