What painkillers can I take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Pain Relief Options While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing pain while ensuring the safety of their infants. Fortunately, there are several painkillers that are generally considered safe to use during this period.
Safe Painkillers for Breastfeeding Mothers
Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) and Ibuprofen are the most commonly recommended over-the-counter pain relievers for breastfeeding mothers. Both medications are effective for managing mild to moderate pain and have been shown to be safe for use while nursing. Research indicates that only minor amounts of these drugs are transferred into breast milk, making them suitable options for mothers who need pain relief.
– Acetaminophen: This medication is widely used for headaches, muscle aches, and other common pains. It is considered safe in recommended doses, and its low transfer rate into breast milk means it poses minimal risk to the breastfeeding infant.
– Ibuprofen: Similar to acetaminophen, ibuprofen is effective for pain relief and inflammation. It is also deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, with studies showing that it does not adversely affect breastfed infants when taken at recommended doses.
Caution with Other Painkillers
While acetaminophen and ibuprofen are safe, other pain medications require caution:
– Aspirin: This is generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome in children, a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain.
– Opioids: Stronger pain medications, such as codeine, should be approached with caution. While some studies suggest that low doses may be acceptable, they can pose risks, especially if the mother metabolizes the drug rapidly, leading to higher levels in breast milk. It is crucial for mothers to consult healthcare providers before using opioids.
Non-Pharmacological Options
In addition to medication, breastfeeding mothers can explore non-drug methods for pain relief. Techniques such as heat therapy, relaxation exercises, and gentle stretching can be beneficial for managing discomfort without the need for medication.
Conclusion
In summary, acetaminophen and ibuprofen are the go-to painkillers for breastfeeding mothers, offering effective relief with minimal risk to infants. However, caution should be exercised with other medications, particularly aspirin and opioids. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication to ensure the safety of both mother and child.

Why can’t you take ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

You can take ibuprofen or use it on your skin while breastfeeding. It is one of the painkillers that’s usually recommended if you’re breastfeeding. Only tiny amounts get into breast milk and it’s unlikely to cause side effects in your baby. Many people have used it while breastfeeding without any problems.

Can I breastfeed if I have a sore throat?

If you have a cold or a sore throat, you should still continue to breastfeed your baby. Doing so will pass on immunity cells so that your baby can fight this specific infection.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

What painkillers can I take for breast pain while breastfeeding?

take some paracetamol or ibuprofen at the recommended dose to ease the pain (these are safe to take while you’re breastfeeding)

Is Tylenol better than ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

Summary of Use during Lactation
There is no difference in breastfeeding initiation rate between ibuprofen or acetaminophen alone after vaginal delivery. Amounts in milk are much less than doses usually given to infants. Adverse effects in breastfed infants appear to be rare.

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.

Can you take oxycodone while breastfeeding?

Oxycodone and breastfeeding
Although only small amounts of oxycodone pass into breast milk, it may still cause side effects in your baby such as breathing problems, being very sleepy, or difficulty feeding. Because of this potential risk, your doctor may recommend a different painkiller while you’re breastfeeding.

What are the best pills for breastfeeding moms?

The Progesterone only pill (mini-pill POP)
The progesterone only contraceptive pill (mini-pill) is generally recommended during breastfeeding. It needs to be taken at the same time every day continuously – a delay of more than 3 hours may mean contraceptive protection is lost.

What painkillers are safe while breastfeeding?

Ibuprofen and some other OTC pain medicines are safe to take while you’re breastfeeding. However, if you’re concerned, talk with your health care provider about any questions you have. Avoid taking any medicines that aren’t necessary while you’re nursing, too. This reduces the risk of side effects or complications.

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