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What stool softener to take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Stool Softeners While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face various challenges, one of which can be constipation. This condition is not uncommon postpartum, and many new mothers seek safe and effective solutions to alleviate discomfort. When considering stool softeners, it’s crucial to choose options that are safe for both the mother and her nursing infant.
Recommended Stool Softeners
One of the most highly recommended stool softeners for breastfeeding mothers is Colace, which contains docusate sodium as its active ingredient. Colace is known for its effectiveness in softening stool, making it easier to pass without causing strain, which is particularly important for postpartum recovery.
Another option is macrogol, a stool softener that is not absorbed or metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract. This means it does not affect the nursing infant, making it a safe choice for breastfeeding mothers.
Additionally, bulk-forming laxatives, such as Fybogel or Regulan, are also considered safe during breastfeeding. These work by absorbing water in the gut, which helps to increase stool volume and ease passage.
Safety Considerations
While many stool softeners are deemed safe, it is essential for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication. This is particularly important as some medications can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the baby.
Mothers should also avoid using enemas for constipation relief, as these can lead to complications and are not recommended during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers dealing with constipation have several safe options for stool softeners, including Colace and macrogol. Bulk-forming laxatives can also be beneficial. However, it is always best to seek personalized advice from a healthcare professional to ensure the chosen method is appropriate for both mother and child.

Is Miralax safe to take while breastfeeding?

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.

What stool softener is safe while breastfeeding?

Docusate and breastfeeding
If diet and lifestyle changes, such as eating more fibre, drinking plenty of fluids and exercising, do not help your constipation, it’s OK to take or use docusate if you’re breastfeeding. Always take or use it for the shortest time needed.

Is it okay to take dulcolax 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.

Can I take Dulcolax 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 helps constipation while 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 is the best stool softener for postpartum?

List of postpartum stool softeners

  • Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener is available for purchase online.
  • Phillips’ Stool Softener is available for purchase online.
  • Dulcolax Pink Stool Softener is available for purchase online.
  • DulcoEase Stool Softener is available for purchase online.

What helps with constipation nursing?

The first remedy should be to increase fruit, vegetable and fibre intake, along with additional water consumption. Exercise may also help to relieve symptoms. If you are taking opioid-based pain relief medication (e.g. dihydrocodeine, co-dydramol, tramadol or morphine), this may cause constipation.

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.

What is the preferred laxative 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.

What can I take for diarrhea while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding mothers can take loperamide and/or rehydrating solutions and feed as normal. Acute diarrhoea is a sudden onset or loose and/or frequent bowel motions. It may be caused by infections e.g. food poisoning or a virus.

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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