What laxatives are safe when breastfeeding?

Understanding Safe Laxatives During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of constipation, a common issue that can arise due to hormonal changes, dietary shifts, and the physical demands of caring for a newborn. When considering laxatives, safety is paramount, as many medications can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the infant. Here’s a detailed look at which laxatives are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Types of Safe Laxatives
1. Bulk-Forming Laxatives: These are often recommended as the safest option for breastfeeding mothers. Bulk-forming laxatives, such as Metamucil, Citrucel, and Fiberall, work by absorbing water in the intestines, which helps to soften the stool and promote regular bowel movements. Because they are not absorbed into the bloodstream, the risk of them passing into breast milk is minimal.
2. Stool Softener Laxatives: Medications like Docusate sodium (often sold under the brand name Colace) are also considered safe. These work by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making it easier to pass. Docusate is commonly used and has a favorable safety profile during breastfeeding.
3. Osmotic Laxatives: Products such as Miralax (polyethylene glycol) are generally regarded as safe as well. They work by drawing water into the bowel, which helps to soften the stool. The amount that enters breast milk is very low, making it a viable option for nursing mothers.
4. Stimulant Laxatives: While stimulant laxatives like Senna and Bisacodyl can be used, they should be approached with caution. These medications stimulate the bowel to promote movement, and while they are not contraindicated, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use.
Important Considerations
While many laxatives are deemed safe, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any medication. Individual health conditions, dietary habits, and the specific needs of the mother and baby can influence the best choice of laxative. Additionally, non-pharmacological approaches such as increasing dietary fiber, staying hydrated, and regular physical activity should be considered as first-line strategies for managing constipation.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have several safe options for managing constipation, including bulk-forming and stool-softening laxatives. While stimulant laxatives can be used, they should be approached with caution. Always prioritize consulting with a healthcare professional to ensure the chosen laxative is appropriate for your specific situation. By taking these precautions, mothers can effectively manage their constipation while ensuring the safety of their breastfeeding journey.

What can a breastfeeding mom take to poop?

Any laxative can be used during breastfeeding as most are either not absorbed or minimally absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract leading to low or negligible levels in breast milk. Prucalopride can be used with caution whilst breastfeeding as it is excreted into breast milk in small levels.

What is a safe laxative to take 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.

How long after giving birth can I take laxatives?

Another recommendation is to take daily stool softeners for the first few weeks postpartum. Make sure that the stool softeners you use are not stimulant laxatives. It’s important to make sure you are well hydrated when you take stool softeners. They work by increasing the amount of water and fat your stool absorbs.

How can I help my constipated breastfed baby poop?

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.

How to treat constipation during breastfeeding?

Exercise – Walking, swimming, cycling, yoga will ease constipation and make you feel healthier. Try to be active and get some exercise every day. Fluids – Pregnant and breastfeeding women need to increase their fluid intake, so drink at least 7-8 glasses/day and even more in hot or humid weather.

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 Miralax safe 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.

Is Dulcolax OK while breastfeeding?

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 are the best laxatives for postpartum?

Try over-the-counter laxatives and softeners like psyllium and methylcellulose, bisacodyl, senna, or castor oil. Use a stool to elevate your feet in a squatting position while sitting on the toilet to help you push more easily.

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.