Welcome to Koyo’s series of trusted healthcare articles. If you need more personalised advice, you can chat with a Koyo doctor today.
Written by: Favour Francis | Reviewed by: Ortega Ogomigo
INTRODUCTION
Many nursing mothers in Nigeria are careful about what they take, not just for their own health, but for their baby’s well-being.
It’s why something as simple as taking a tablet can come with hesitation, making you wonder: “Will this affect my baby?”
This caution often comes from the belief that anything a mother takes can pass into her breastmilk, and that belief isn’t entirely wrong.
Some substances do pass into breastmilk. But in most cases, the amount is very small, usually not enough to affect your baby in any harmful way. Still, it’s understandable to be concerned. When it comes to your baby, even the smallest doubt can feel like too much to ignore.
That’s why, although many medications are safe to use while breastfeeding, it’s always best to speak with a doctor first. They can recommend the right option, guide you on the correct dosage, and confirm that it’s safe for both you and your baby.
In this article, we’ll help you understand:
- What medicines are safe during breastfeeding
- What medicines not to take while breastfeeding
What Safe Medicines Can I Take While Breastfeeding?
“Safe” doesn’t mean you should take just anything without checking. It simply means that some commonly used medicines are generally considered low risk when used correctly.
Here are some examples:
- Pain Relief
Medicines like paracetamol and ibuprofen are commonly used for headaches, body pain, or fever, and are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers when taken as recommended.
- Antibiotics
Many antibiotics prescribed by a doctor are safe during breastfeeding. However, not all are the same, so it’s important not to self-medicate or use leftover prescriptions.
- Cold and Flu Medications
Some cold remedies may be safe, but others can cause drowsiness or reduce milk supply. This is why it’s important to check with your doctor before using them.
- Antihistamines
Certain antihistamines can be used, but some may make your baby unusually sleepy or affect your milk production. A doctor can guide you on the right option.
- Contraceptives (Birth Control)
Some family planning methods are safe to use while breastfeeding, but not all are recommended, especially in the early weeks.
Options like progestin-only pills, implants, and injections are often preferred because they do not significantly affect milk supply. On the other hand, contraceptives that contain estrogen may reduce milk production, particularly if started too early.
It’s best to speak with a healthcare provider to choose what works for your body and your baby.
- Routine Vaccinations
Most routine vaccines are safe for breastfeeding mothers and do not harm your baby.
Vaccines like: Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Flu (influenza) vaccine, and COVID-19 vaccine are generally considered safe and can even help protect your baby by passing some level of antibodies through breastmilk.
What Medicines Should I Avoid While Breastfeeding?
While many medications are safe to use during breastfeeding, some are not recommended because they can pass into breastmilk in higher amounts or affect your baby’s health.
Here are some examples:
- Strong Pain Medications
Some strong painkillers, especially those containing opioids, can make your baby unusually sleepy or affect their breathing if they pass into breastmilk in significant amounts.
- Certain Psychiatric Medications
While some medicines for depression and anxiety are safe, others may not be suitable during breastfeeding. This is why it’s important not to start, stop, or switch any mental health medication without speaking to a doctor first.
- Chemotherapy Drugs
Medicines used for cancer treatment are generally not safe during breastfeeding, as they can be harmful to your baby even in small amounts.
- Radioactive Medications
Some diagnostic or treatment procedures use radioactive substances, which can pass into breastmilk and may require you to stop breastfeeding temporarily.
- Some Herbal Remedies
In Nigeria, herbal products are often seen as “natural,” but that doesn’t always mean they are safe, especially with mixtures like agbo, where different herbs are combined and the exact ingredients or amounts may not be clear. Unlike regular medicines, many herbal remedies have not been properly studied to show how they affect breastmilk or babies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does medicine stay in breastmilk?
It varies by medication. Some leave the body within hours, while others may stay longer. A doctor or pharmacist can explain timing based on the specific drug.
2. Are over-the-counter drugs safe for breastfeeding mothers?
Not all OTC drugs are safe. Some are fine, but others can affect your baby or milk supply, so it’s important to check before using them.
3. What happens if I accidentally take strong pain killers while breastfeeding?
In most cases, a single dose is unlikely to cause serious harm, but you can contact a doctor on Koyo for immediate health advice.
4. What should I tell my doctor if I need to get a medicine while breastfeeding?
Always tell your doctor that you are breastfeeding so they can choose a medicine that is safe for both you and your baby.
From the Desk of Koyo Doctors
In most cases, taking medication while breastfeeding is not a cause for concern, as the drugs recommended during this period are usually chosen with both you and your baby in mind.
However, this safety depends on one important thing: guidance. Taking medication without proper advice can introduce risks that are otherwise avoidable.
So, before using any drug, even one that seems harmless, make it a habit to inform your doctor or pharmacist that you are breastfeeding. This helps ensure that whatever you take is truly safe for both you and your baby.
A little caution, guided by the right information, goes a long way in keeping both of you well.
