Will cough drops dry up breast milk?

Understanding the Impact of Cough Drops on Breast Milk Production
When it comes to managing a cough while breastfeeding, many nursing mothers may wonder about the safety and effects of cough drops on their milk supply. The concern primarily revolves around whether these lozenges could inadvertently dry up breast milk.
Cough Drops and Their Ingredients
Cough drops typically contain soothing agents like menthol or eucalyptus, along with sweeteners and sometimes mild anesthetics. Importantly, most cough drops are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Experts agree that using cough drops or lozenges does not pose a significant risk to milk production or quality.
The Role of Decongestants
However, the situation becomes more complex when cough drops contain decongestants. Some medications designed to alleviate cold symptoms, particularly those that dry up mucus, can have a drying effect throughout the body. This includes the potential to affect breast milk supply. According to medical professionals, while cough drops themselves are generally safe, if they contain decongestants, there could be a risk of reducing milk production.
Breastfeeding While Sick
It’s also crucial to note that breastfeeding while experiencing a cold or cough is safe. The infection itself does not transmit through breast milk, meaning that mothers can continue to nurse their infants without concern for passing on their illness.
Conclusion
In summary, while standard cough drops are safe for breastfeeding mothers and unlikely to dry up breast milk, caution should be exercised with those containing decongestants. If you’re a nursing mother dealing with a cough, it’s advisable to check the ingredients of your cough drops and consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your milk supply. This way, you can effectively manage your symptoms while ensuring the health and well-being of both you and your baby.

What is the best cough drop for breastfeeding?

Sore throat sprays or lozenges are generally considered safe, as are cough drops. Avoid eating excessive amounts of cough drops containing menthol. Large amounts of menthol can reduce milk supply. Many forms of Robitussin, Delsym and Benylin are considered compatible with breastfeeding.

Can I take Ricola cough drops while breastfeeding?

In principle, Ricola products are safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. For your own safety, however, we recommend that you consult your doctor in advance to rule out any allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in our products.

What dries up breast milk?

Key takeaways: Birth control methods with estrogen, cold medications with pseudoephedrine, and the fertility medication clomiphene can all dry up your breast milk supply. Some people have suggested that diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may affect breast milk supply, too.

What can I take for a sore throat and cough while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

• Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
• Gargle some salt water.
• If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

What causes dryness of breast milk?

“Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.”

Do cough drops affect the baby?

Cough and Sore Throat
Benzocaine: Lozenges and cough drops may contain benzocaine. Human data does not show a risk of birth defects with benzocaine treatment during the first few months of pregnancy or throughout pregnancy.

Do cough drops affect milk supply?

Sore throat sprays, lozenges or cough drops are usually considered safe. Avoid taking large amounts of cough drops containing menthol as this may decrease milk production.

Does Benadryl help dry up milk?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

Does menthol decrease milk supply?

Menthol is a compound found in many types of mint, including the most common variety consumed, peppermint. And unfortunately, menthol has been shown to decrease milk supply in some breastfeeding women. This doesn’t mean that you have to swear off mint altogether though.

Does cough drops affect the baby?

Cough and Sore Throat
Benzocaine: Lozenges and cough drops may contain benzocaine. Human data does not show a risk of birth defects with benzocaine treatment during the first few months of pregnancy or throughout pregnancy.