using laxatives and breastfeeding

[melissamed]

I was prescribed Colace and milk of magnesia because I had a 4th degree tear. My baby weighed over 9 lbs. I want to breastfeed but my ob said I had to take this medicines until I heal. I am afraid that my baby will have diarrhea. Have any of you encountered this situation? What would you do? Should I "pump and dump" for now and use formula until I am able to stop taking this medicine, or are there any other things that I can do? Thank you for your help!

[@llli*number4]

Well first let me say: congrats on your new precious babe! and good for you for wanting to give your baby the best you can give! My "condolences" on the tear - take good care of yourself!!!

now for the laxatives...
heres a great non-LLL site that has info on some
laxatives...

http://www.kellymom.com/health/meds/laxatives.html

From what I have quickly read they are deemed safe..

Most laxatives, particularly dietary fiber/bulk forming laxatives and stool softeners, are considered compatible with breastfeeding. The stimulant laxatives are more likely to be of concern, and should never be used long-term (whether you are breastfeeding or not).

if you're worried about the babys reactions you should contact a pediatrician to check out what to watch for...


good luck! happy nursing

[@llli*moose]

I have been taking a stool softener...and I can't remember the "ingredients" or the name for them...I will find out for you. but I have been taking them since dd's birth, with no apparent complications. I ended up with hemorhoids...not a tear...but boohoo for us both!!!

[@llli*lucas.4-5-6]

I took Colace for a few weeks after having DS with no obvious effects on DS.

[@llli*paint.the.moon]

I have been taking a stool softener...and I can't remember the "ingredients" or the name for them...I will find out for you. but I have been taking them since dd's birth, with no apparent complications. I ended up with hemorhoids...not a tear...but boohoo for us both!!!

I've been taking a stool softener too since Adeline's birth (actually I was taking it while preggers too on the advice of my OB). Still take it every day to stay regular ... it does NOT pass through to baby!

[llmommy]

I also took a stool softener after giving birth (I believe it was Colace but not sure), and it caused no problems with BFing. There are many many medications that are compatible with breastfeeding and cause no need to pump and dump or to use formula. Both your OB and your child's pediatrician should be able to tell you whether or not the medication is ok for BF and what if any side effects to look for. If the particular one recommended is not considered safe for BF, ask for an alternative that is.

Congratulations on your new baby! Hope that tear heals quickly--ouch! I had a partial 3rd degree and I know it was NOT fun.

[JustSasha]

I had a c-section (which includes days of starvation plus having your innards moved around while you're open on the operating table- not easy on your digestive system) and I too had to take a stool softener. I was weary too, but I hadn't gone in days, so I did as my nurse instructed and took it. There were no obvious affects on my babe.

Here's to hoping you have a smooth recovery... I've got three weeks to go myself. Feel better!

[DebiMommyTo2]

Just wanted to say that if you have not discussed this with your pediatrician, I would call them tomorrow morning and see what they say. What did the prescribing OB say?

I had terrible tearing with my first DD (and am pretty scared it will happen with this one next week too) - I never had to take a laxative. I was so afraid to go the first time...but it ended up being okay (I was also on a stool softener which I started the night of DD's birth).

I hope that you get answers from the doctors ASAP so that you can carry on with your bf'ing or pumping.

Good luck!!!