What medicine can I take for stomach pain while breastfeeding?

Understanding Stomach Pain Relief While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing discomfort, including stomach pain, while ensuring the safety of their infants. When it comes to medication, it’s crucial to choose options that are both effective and safe for nursing.
Safe Medications for Stomach Pain
For mild to moderate stomach pain, acetaminophen (paracetamol) is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. It can be taken to alleviate pain without significant risk to the infant, as it passes into breast milk in very low levels. Additionally, ibuprofen is another over-the-counter option that is typically safe for use during breastfeeding. It can be taken in recommended doses, and like acetaminophen, it is excreted in breast milk at minimal levels.
Gastrointestinal Medications
If the stomach pain is related to gastrointestinal issues, certain medications can be used. Antacids, such as Tums or Rolaids, are often recommended for relief from heartburn or indigestion. These medications are not only effective but also safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if it’s combined with other treatments.
Consultation is Key
While many over-the-counter medications are deemed safe, it’s essential for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before taking any medication. This is particularly important if the pain persists or if there are underlying health conditions that could complicate treatment. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice and may suggest alternative treatments or lifestyle changes that could alleviate stomach pain without the need for medication.
Natural Remedies
In addition to medications, some mothers may find relief through natural remedies. Foods like bananas, white rice, and certain herbal teas can help soothe an upset stomach. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can also play a significant role in digestive health.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers experiencing stomach pain have several safe options for relief, including acetaminophen and ibuprofen, as well as certain antacids. However, the best course of action is to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure both the mother’s and the infant’s health are prioritized. By taking informed steps, mothers can effectively manage their discomfort while continuing to provide nourishment to their babies.

What is a stomach friendly alternative to ibuprofen?

Acetaminophen, especially in low dose, appears less likely to irritate the stomach than NSAIDs, so in many cases it is reasonable to take acetaminophen along with (or instead of) NSAIDs.

What can breastfeeding moms take for stomach ache?

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.

Which gastric medicine is safe during breastfeeding?

Any PPI can be used during breastfeeding, however omeprazole and pantoprazole are the PPIs of choice as they are excreted into breast milk in very small amounts and have evidence to support their use. Any PPI that passes into breast milk is likely to be degraded in the infant’s gastrointestinal tract.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects

What can I take for stomach pain while breastfeeding?

Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby. For a sour stomach or heartburn, Tums and Rolaids are safe to use. Look for the ingredients calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

What can I take for a stomach ache while breastfeeding?

Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby. For a sour stomach or heartburn, Tums and Rolaids are safe to use. Look for the ingredients calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

Can I take Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Pepto-Bismol and breastfeeding
Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding.

What pain medicine is best while breastfeeding?

Paracetamol is the first choice pain medication during breastfeeding. While it appears in breast milk, the amount is too small to cause harm to your baby. Sometimes paracetamol alone may not control your pain. In this case a non- steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID), for example ibuprofen, can also be taken.

What can I take for a stomach bug while breastfeeding?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.

Can I take Tums while breastfeeding?

Drug Levels and Effects
In addition, oral absorption of aluminum and magnesium is poor. Because of these factors, reviewers generally consider antacid use during breastfeeding to be acceptable. [1-3] No special precautions are required.