Breastfeeding can be a rewarding yet challenging experience, especially when you’re not feeling well and may need medication. As a new mom, you might wonder, "Is it safe to take antibiotics while breastfeeding?" It’s a common question, and understanding the safety of antibiotics during breastfeeding is crucial since some medications can pass through your milk to your baby.
This article will give you all the information you need. You’ll find out which antibiotics are safe to take while breastfeeding, what side effects to be aware of, and some helpful tips to keep both you and your baby healthy as you recover.
Can You Safely Take Antibiotics While Breastfeeding?
During breastfeeding, your body may experience several changes, especially when it comes to medication. If you’re dealing with an infection or illness, you might wonder if it's safe to take antibiotics like amoxicillin while breastfeeding.
In most cases, antibiotics are safe to use while breastfeeding, but it's important to choose the right type. Some antibiotics can pass through your breast milk, but many are considered safe for both you and your baby. Your healthcare provider will be able to recommend an antibiotic that will effectively treat your condition while minimizing any risk to your baby.
It's also important to monitor your baby for any changes in behavior or feeding habits while you're on antibiotics. If you notice anything unusual, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further guidance.
Which Antibiotics Can You Take While Breastfeeding?
The safety of taking antibiotics while nursing is typically determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account your baby’s age, weight, and overall health, and should always be discussed with both your baby’s pediatrician and your prescribing doctor.
However, the Mayo Clinic identifies several antibiotics that are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, including:
- Penicillins, such as amoxicillin and ampicillin
- Cephalosporins, like cephalexin (Keflex)
- Fluconazole (Diflucan) — although not an antibiotic, it is a commonly used antimicrobial for fungal infections
If you're considering an antibiotic that isn't on this list, it's best to consult with your baby’s pediatrician. In most cases, the antibiotic is either safe or there’s an alternative that is suitable for breastfeeding.
What Are Unsafe Antibiotics While Breastfeeding?
While most antibiotics are generally safe for breastfeeding parents, healthcare providers may recommend alternatives for certain medications. According to a study, some antibiotics can pass through breast milk and potentially affect your baby’s bone growth and tooth development. It can even worsen jaundice.
If you're breastfeeding, your healthcare provider may suggest alternatives to the following antibiotics:
- Clindamycin: This antibiotic can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal issues in breastfed babies, like diarrhea, vomiting, diaper rash, or thrush.
- Co-trimoxazole: This is rarely prescribed to breastfeeding parents with newborns due to a potential link to increased jaundice.
- Tetracycline: While earlier research suggested tetracycline could cause tooth discoloration and delayed bone growth, more recent studies indicate that the risk is minimal when used for short periods (no longer than seven to ten days).
Will Antibiotics Affect Breastfeeding and Milk Supply?
Yes, antibiotics can affect breastfeeding and milk supply. While many antibiotics are safe for breastfeeding mothers, some may interfere with the hormones responsible for milk production, potentially reducing milk supply.
In some cases, antibiotics can cause side effects that impact lactation, leading to a temporary decrease in milk production. However, many mothers continue to breastfeed without issues while taking antibiotics. If you notice a drop in milk supply, it's a good idea to consult your healthcare provider for advice on managing the situation.
How to Minimize My Antibiotics Affect My Breastfed Baby?
To minimize the impact of antibiotics on your breastfed baby, here are a few helpful tips:
Feed Previously Pumped Milk
Use milk you've pumped before starting antibiotics to avoid exposing your baby to the medication.
Use a Reliable Breast Pump
The Momcozy M9 breast pump can help you maintain a steady milk supply and collect milk for future feedings. It lets you extract milk with great efficiency completely hands-free. The best thing is that it also reduces pain in the nipples. It is especially useful because it lets you provide your baby with breast milk that hasn't been affected by the antibiotics.
Take Antibiotics After Feedings
If possible, take your antibiotics immediately after a breastfeeding session to give time for the medication to leave your system before the next feed.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
Always check with your doctor to ensure the antibiotics prescribed are safe for breastfeeding.
Monitor Your Baby
Keep an eye on your baby for any unusual symptoms like fussiness or changes in feeding habits after you start the antibiotics.
Are There Any Other Possible Side Effects of Antibiotics?
Yes, antibiotics when nursing can cause your baby to have rashes, diarrhea, irritability, or constipation. You may also notice that their poop is runnier or greener than usual.
A study has observed that this could happen if you take amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. But please note that this is not very common, and the issues do not last long.
Nevertheless, consult a doctor if you think the baby has any symptoms.
What To Discuss With Doctors When They Are Prescribing Antibiotics?
While many medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding, it is best to get a doctor's OK first. When prescribed a medicine, ask about how it can benefit you and your baby. On top of that, ask if there are potential risks. You should also discuss if the dosage can be lowered to reduce the amount that could get into the breast milk.
Conclusion
Is it safe to take antibiotics while breastfeeding? In most cases, yes. Many antibiotics are safe for nursing mothers, but it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider to make sure the one you’re prescribed is right for you.
Can antibiotics affect milk supply? Yes, some antibiotics can temporarily reduce milk production, but most moms can continue breastfeeding without major issues.
To reduce any risks for your baby, consider taking antibiotics after a feeding, using milk you've already pumped, or asking your doctor if there are alternative antibiotics available. These steps can help protect your baby and support your milk supply.
