What stool softeners are safe during breastfeeding?

Understanding Stool Softeners During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face various challenges, one of which is constipation. This condition can be uncomfortable and may require intervention. However, safety is paramount when considering any medication during breastfeeding. So, what stool softeners are deemed safe for nursing mothers?
Safe Options for Stool Softeners
According to medical experts, certain stool softeners are considered safe for use while breastfeeding. Osmotic laxatives, such as Miralax (polyethylene glycol) and Dulcolax (bisacodyl), are generally recommended. These medications work by drawing water into the intestines, which helps soften the stool without being significantly absorbed into the bloodstream. This means they are unlikely to affect the nursing infant.
Another safe option is macrogol, a high molecular weight stool softener that is not absorbed or metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract. This characteristic makes it particularly safe for breastfeeding mothers, as it does not pass into breast milk and therefore does not pose a risk to the infant.
Recommendations and Precautions
While many stool softeners are safe, healthcare providers often recommend starting with bulk-forming laxatives or osmotic laxatives before considering stimulant laxatives. Bulk laxatives can be particularly effective for mothers experiencing small, hard stools, although they may take longer to work, sometimes up to 72 hours.
It’s crucial for breastfeeding mothers to avoid stimulant laxatives unless absolutely necessary, as these can lead to cramping and may affect milk supply. Additionally, the use of enemas is generally discouraged during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use stool softeners like Miralax, Dulcolax, and macrogol to alleviate constipation. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication to ensure it aligns with individual health needs and circumstances. By prioritizing safety and seeking professional guidance, mothers can effectively manage constipation while continuing to provide for their infants.

Can I take Equate stool softener while breastfeeding?

This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant.

Can I take MiraLAX while breastfeeding?

MiraLAX is a brand-name powder prescribed to help treat constipation. It contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). MiraLAX is safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

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 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 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.

Can I use stool softener while breastfeeding?

Recommendations. Any laxative can be used during breastfeeding as most are either not absorbed or minimally absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract leading to low or negligible levels in breast milk.

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 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 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.

Is Colace or MiraLAX better for postpartum?

Miralax is usually preferred for certain types of constipation, including constipation that happens during pregnancy or while taking medications. Colace can help soften stools to lessen straining if you have hemorrhoids, a heart condition, or recently underwent surgery.