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Can Breastfeeding Moms Have it All?
By Shel Franco
The good news is that breastfeeding moms don't have to tough it out. "Most medications are safe for use with breastfeeding women," says Dwiggins. Only one percent of most drugs actually get into your milk. When you're standing at the drugstore trying to decide which over-the-counter remedies to buy, one way you can determine if a drug may be safe is by looking at the medicines available for children of the same age you are nursing.
For example, you will find ibuprofen for adults and infants, so this is likely to be safe. However, you won't find antihistamines labeled for use in young children, so you would want to check with a healthcare professional before taking them. (However, it's always best to check with a healthcare professional before taking any medications when nursing, especially if your baby is very young, premature or is having nursing problems.)
Dwiggins adds that contact with a doctor or lactation consultant should be made to verify the safety of individual medicines. Keep in mind that many doctors do not know which drugs are compatible for nursing, so get a second opinion from a lactation consultant or La Leche League Leader if you don't like what your doctor tells you. They should have a copy of Dr. Hale's Medications and Mother's Milk, the most comprehensive source for information on the relationship between drugs and nursing available.
Then, there's vitamins and herbs. Many women take multiple vitamins, and a daily dose of herbs s become more and more popular. Is it safe to continue these practices while breastfeeding?
Want to see more?
- For the most comprehensive information on drugs and nursing, see Dr. Hale's Lactational Pharmacology Web site, the source for healthcare professionals
- Read the Breastfeed.com expert panel's answers to questions on Medications, Foods and Breastfeeding.
- Read Breastfeeding and Allergies for a look at how food allergies can affect breastfed babies and tips on following an elimination diet.
