Breastfeeding

The benefits of breastfeeding

Breastfeeding has many benefits for both you and your baby. For your baby, breastfeeding means a lower chance of infections to the stomach, intestines, throat, ears and lungs. There is also a link between breastfeeding and a lower risk of obesity and diabetes later in life.

For you as a mother, breastfeeding causes your uterus to shrink faster, which helps you lose less blood after delivery. In addition, by breastfeeding you produce the "cuddle hormone," which helps you relax. It also appears that women who breastfeed are less likely to develop certain diseases, such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes.

Medication use during breastfeeding

Are you taking medication? Then it is important to know if you can safely breastfeed. This is because not all medications are suitable to use while breastfeeding. Some medications can end up in breast milk and get to your baby. This can sometimes be harmful.

Always ask our advice if you are taking medication and want to breastfeed. Preferably do this before your baby is born so you know where you stand. We can tell you exactly which medications are safe and which are better to avoid.

Common medications for breastfeeding

Below we list some medications commonly prescribed to breastfeeding women. We explain what they do and whether they are safe while breastfeeding.

Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a hormone your body makes for itself that helps with the "letdown reflex. This is the process by which milk is released from your breasts when your baby drinks at the breast or when you pump. Sometimes your doctor may prescribe a nasal spray of oxytocin if the letdown reflex is not going well, such as if you have engorgement (hard and full breasts) or if you have difficulty pumping. Oxytocin is safe to use during breastfeeding and helps stimulate milk production.

Domperidone

Domperidone is sometimes prescribed to stimulate milk production. It works by promoting the release of the hormone prolactin, which causes you to produce more milk. This medication can be helpful if you are not producing enough milk. However, Domperidone can have side effects, so it's important that your doctor or pharmacist check first to see if this drug is right for you.

Paracetamol and ibuprofen

If you suffer from pain during breastfeeding, such as from sensitive nipples or cracked nipples, you can use paracetamol. This is a safe pain reliever during breastfeeding. If paracetamol doesn't help enough, you can also use ibuprofen. This has an anti-inflammatory effect and is also safe while breastfeeding.

Flucloxacillin

Breast infection (mastitis) can occur when bacteria get into the mammary glands. This can cause pain, swelling and fever. If you have mastitis, your doctor may prescribe flucloxacillin. This is an antibiotic that fights the bacteria that cause the inflammation. Flucloxacillin is safe to use while breastfeeding. However, it is important to finish the antibiotic course completely, even if your symptoms disappear before then.

Erythromycin

Erythromycin is another antibiotic that is sometimes prescribed for breast infection. Like flucloxacillin, it fights the bacteria that cause the infection. Erythromycin is also safe for your baby while breastfeeding.

What can you do if you have too little milk?

If you think you are not producing enough milk, there are some steps you can take. Make sure you latch your baby on often, about 8 to 12 times a day, including at night. Lots of skin-to-skin contact also helps stimulate milk production. If you still don't have much milk despite these measures, consider pumping between feedings to boost your milk production.

In some cases, your doctor can help you with medications such as oxytocin or domperidone, as mentioned earlier. In addition, it is always a good idea to seek help from a lactation consultant. This specialist can support you in optimizing the breastfeeding process.

Advice and support

Have questions or concerns about breastfeeding in combination with medications? Don't hesitate to contact your obstetrician, family doctor or pharmacy. You can also contact a lactation consultant, who specializes in breastfeeding counseling. Good guidance can ensure that you can continue breastfeeding even if you have to take medication.

Breastfeeding is a valuable process for you and your baby. With the right care and support, you can continue it for as long as you want. When in doubt, always seek advice from your health care provider. That way, you can ensure that both you and your baby stay healthy, even while on medication.