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What pill can you take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Medication Safety While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the dilemma of needing medication while ensuring the safety of their infants. The good news is that many medications are considered safe for use during breastfeeding, but it is crucial to approach this with caution and informed guidance.
Safe Medications for Breastfeeding Mothers
When it comes to over-the-counter and prescription medications, consultation with a healthcare provider is essential. Doctors or pediatricians can provide tailored advice based on individual health needs and the specific medication in question.
One of the most commonly discussed categories of medication for breastfeeding mothers is pain relievers. For instance, acetaminophen is widely regarded as safe, as only minimal amounts pass into breast milk, which are significantly lower than the doses typically administered directly to infants. This makes it a reliable option for managing pain or fever without compromising breastfeeding.
Birth Control Options
For mothers looking to manage their reproductive health while breastfeeding, birth control pills are a viable option. Specifically, progestin-only pills, often referred to as the “mini-pill,” are recommended as they do not adversely affect milk supply. These pills can be started after the first three weeks postpartum, allowing mothers to regain control over their fertility without risking their breastfeeding journey.
While some may worry about the impact of hormonal contraceptives on milk production, studies indicate that while combination pills (which contain both estrogen and progestin) may cause a temporary dip in milk supply, they are generally safe to use after the initial postpartum period. Thus, breastfeeding mothers have a range of contraceptive options that can be safely integrated into their routines.
General Guidelines for Medication Use
In general, most medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, as the amount transferred to breast milk is typically low. However, it is important to avoid certain medications that are contraindicated during breastfeeding. Always check with healthcare professionals before starting any new medication.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can take various medications, including pain relievers like acetaminophen and specific birth control pills, with proper medical guidance. This ensures that both the mother’s health and the baby’s safety are prioritized, allowing for a balanced approach to medication during this critical period.

Can I take extra-strength Tylenol while pregnant?

Tylenol (acetaminophen) is considered the safest painkiller to take during pregnancy. Yes, you can take Extra-Strength (500 mg) Tylenol during pregnancy, but don’t take more than 6 caplets (3,000 mg) in 24 hours unless your doctor advises you to. Yes, you can take the proper dose of Tylenol any time during pregnancy.

What is the safest birth control while breastfeeding?

Option #2: Mini-pill
If you’d like to use an oral contraceptive, the mini-pill is an option. This pill contains progestin only, so it’s considered to be safer for breastfeeding mothers.

What pill is safe while breastfeeding?

Oral contraceptives (the pill): the progesterone-only mini pill is best while breastfeeding. The pill (combined oral contraceptive pill) should not be taken. Painkillers: paracetamol is safe to take at the recommended dose while breast feeding. Ibuprofen should only be taking in low doses for a short time.

What can’t you take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include: codeine phosphate. decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow. some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.

What medicine is safe to take while breastfeeding for a cold?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

What birth control doesn’t affect milk supply?

IUDs, condoms, a diaphragm, or a cervical cap and spermicide may be considered as alternative contraceptive choices for now (even if somewhat less effective); these forms of birth control are unlikely to interfere with your milk supply.

What are the chances of getting pregnant while breastfeeding?

About 2 out of 100 people who use breastfeeding as birth control get pregnant in the 6 months it can be used after a baby is born. Breastfeeding won’t prevent pregnancy if you feed your baby anything other than breast milk. So if you breastfeed but also use formula, LAM isn’t a great birth control method for you.

What contraceptive pill can you take while breastfeeding?

There are 4 methods of birth control you can use while you’re breastfeeding:

  • male condoms and female condoms – as soon you feel ready to have sex.
  • any progestogen-only method, including the progestogen-only pill, implant and injection – these can be started immediately after birth.

Is it safe 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.

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
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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