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What pain relief can I take when breastfeeding?

Understanding Pain Relief Options While Breastfeeding
Navigating pain relief while breastfeeding can be a concern for many new mothers. It’s essential to ensure that any medication taken is safe for both the mother and the infant. Fortunately, there are several options available that have been deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Safe Pain Relievers
Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) and Ibuprofen are two of the most commonly recommended pain relievers for breastfeeding mothers. Both medications are considered safe and can be taken up to their maximum daily doses without significant risk to the nursing infant. Research indicates that these medications pass into breast milk in very low levels, making them suitable for managing pain during the postpartum period.
Naproxen is another option that is generally regarded as safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if it is combined with other substances.
Considerations for Opioids
While over-the-counter pain relievers are often the first line of defense, some mothers may require stronger pain relief, such as opioids. It is crucial to approach this option with caution. Opioids can also pass into breast milk, but healthcare professionals can provide guidance on the safest use of these medications while breastfeeding. If prescribed opioids, mothers should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider to ensure the safety of their infant.
General Guidelines for Medication Use
When taking any medication while breastfeeding, it is important to follow a few general guidelines:
1. Timing: Taking medication right after breastfeeding can minimize the amount that enters breast milk before the next feeding.
2. Dosage: Always adhere to the recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare provider if unsure.
3. Monitoring: Keep an eye on the infant for any unusual symptoms or reactions after taking medication.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have access to several safe pain relief options, including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen. While stronger medications like opioids may be necessary in some cases, they should be used under medical supervision. By following guidelines and consulting healthcare professionals, mothers can effectively manage pain while ensuring the safety of their breastfeeding journey.

Does Tylenol reduce milk supply?

Dr. Rubin notes that both LactMed, a breastfeeding research database, and the InfantRisk Center consider Tylenol a safe option during lactation. “LactMed and InfantRisk are the most trusted resources by breastfeeding medicine specialists when determining the safety of medications during lactation,” Dr.

Which painkiller is safe for feeding a mother?

Ibuprofen is the first-choice anti-inflammatory when breastfeeding as it has been used by many breastfeeding mothers without any reports of problems. Diclofenac, (Voltarol®) is acceptable when breastfeeding, as it won’t stay in your body for long.

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 is the safest pain reliever during pregnancy?

Paracetamol is the painkiller of choice for use in pregnancy and its use does not require medical supervision. It is not uncommon for women to have used other types of painkiller early in pregnancy before finding out they are pregnant.

Do painkillers pass through breastmilk?

Small amounts of any medicine you take may pass through your breast milk to your baby. Generally, the amounts are very low and very few medicines are unsafe while you’re breastfeeding.

Can I take Tylenol Extra Strength while 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 pain relievers are safe while breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

What painkiller is safe postpartum?

After caesarean section or assisted delivery, we recommend you take ibuprofen 400 mg four times a day as well as paracetamol regularly for a few days. It is safe to take ibuprofen at the same time as paracetamol. Do not take more than 1200mg ibuprofen in 24 hours without medical advice.

Is it better to take Tylenol or ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

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.

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.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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