What cold medicine can I take while breastfeeding? Why are ingredients and dosages so important? Are there any natural remedies I can take from home? So many questions, and so many answers below. Keep reading.
What cold medicine can I take while breastfeeding?
It can be dangerous to start taking cold medicine when you’re sick and nursing a newborn baby. That’s because your breastmilk carries vitamins, minerals, and other substances from your body to your baby’s stomach. If your system is toxic then your child could feel the effects.
As a result of this anatomical truth, there are only certain cold medicines you can take while breastfeeding. Ask your doctor for more information, but stick to these OTC meds in the meantime:
- Acetaminophen
- Ibuprofen
- Tylenol
- Advil
Most of the time, doctors will monitor a mother and child closely before recommending prescription cold medication. Therefore, over-the-counter medicines usually give the fastest relief. It’s important to be diligent about dosages though, as no two bodies react the same to ingredients.
Why are ingredients and dosages so important?
Have you ever asked a doctor, “What cold medicine can I take while breastfeeding?” They probably warned you against using Benadryl and other allergy medications, didn’t they? That’s because products like those contain ingredients that reduce your milk supply. Worst of all, they can make you and the baby very drowsy.
Ingredients are important but so are the dosages. In fact, it’s extremely dangerous to take more than is listed on the label even if your tolerance is high. If you feel like your cold has lasted longer than usual, see a doctor. And if OTC treatments just aren’t working, try a natural at-home remedy instead.
What cold medicine can I take while breastfeeding at home?
There are several at-home cold remedies for breastfeeding women, you just need to know where to find them. It might be better to start with these treatments because natural options are always healthier for the baby. So, here are your top 10 choices when you don’t want to take meds:
- Rub mentholated cream on your chest and under your nose.
- Use a Neti pot to cleanse your nasal passages.
- Swallow some throat lozenges to soothe a persistent cough.
- Inhale steam from a hot bath or shower.
- Raise your body temperature with some warm blankets.
- Drink a hot beverage like green tea or chicken broth.
- Get lots of extra rest.
- Ingest a bunch of clear liquids to help flush your system.
- Eat a well-balanced diet to maintain your milk production.
- Reduce your stress by prioritizing wellness.
If your symptoms persist for more than 10 days, make an appointment to see your doctor right away. Also, keep an eye on your baby for signs of sickness. To prevent passing an illness to your child, try pumping your breastmilk until you feel better.
The takeaway
You can still breastfeed and recover from a cold. It’s just that you need to be extra careful about the medicines that you take. Consult with a physician before ingesting anything, though.
