Lactation 101 - Drugs and Breastfeeding

Lactation and breastfeeding is a new challenge, just as pregnancy and the postpartum period have their own unique needs and challenges to work through. In pregnancy, you got some practice in reading labels, considering natural remedies, and discussing other options with your care provider as you navigated growing a human and taking care of your body. This awareness and negotiation continues into the postpartum period and throughout breastfeeding and lactation.

One thing to keep in mind is that pregnancy and lactation behave differently in how each interacts with drugs and natural remedies, so what may have been safe or unsafe during pregnancy could be the opposite during lactation.

The myth I want to clear up today is, “I won’t be able to breastfeed because I’m taking a prescription medication.”

While this may be true, it isn’t a given, and there could be alternative medications to switch to, if necessary. The key is finding the right information, and pushing for what you think is most important for your family. Even outside of pregnancy and lactation, doctors are usually hesitant to give more than one option, but when asked if there’s an alternative, they will almost always have more ideas-you just have to ask.

And with that, I want to remind you that you pay the doctor. You are not ever beholden to your provider nor their advice. If something feels off, or you’re not feeling heard, seek out another opinion. There have been too many instances of parents telling me their provider didn’t listen to their concerns, brushed them off, were dismissive, or just not helpful. Go somewhere else! We pay way too much for healthcare in the US to not make our dollar work for us and get the care we deserve. (And I will step off the soapbox now!)

When meeting with a care provider, always mention that you're lactating, and then work with them to come up with the best treatment plan. Be prepared for the conversation and have this resource bookmarked for your own reference.

If you’d like to discuss your options with a lactation counselor, book an appointment today and get those questions answered and feel empowered going into your next appointment.