Breastfeeding mothers are always kept on their toes when it comes to any medication they take. The reason is simple- the possibility of transferring harmful substances to their little one. Medications such as Aleve are pain relievers that many breastfeeding moms may consider taking at some point, but the real question is whether it's safe for lactating mothers or not? In this article, you'll discover everything there is to know about whether breastfeeding moms can take Aleve.
What Is Aleve?
Aleve(®) (Naproxen Sodium) belongs to a group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are commonly used for treating pain and inflammation in adults. The drug reduces hormones that cause swelling and inflammation, thus resulting in relief from conditions like arthritis, menstrual cramps as well as headaches. However,over-the-counter medicines shouldn't be consumed lightly, especially by nursing women due to potential harm caused by ingredients transferred into breastmilk.
How Does It Affect Lactating Women And Their Babies?
It's no secret that a mom’s quality milk secretion provides paramount nourishment to her infant's growth and development, hence worry arises regarding how naproxen sodium refects on both mother and child during breastfeeding.
Unfortunately,the transfer of medications through breast milk can vary depending on many factors ranging from the maternal dose taken down drug chemistry itself rightto baby’s characteristics including age size anhealth condition. While According To datafromHale&RoweGuide,Harris&WenzlaffandAmericanAcademyOfPediatrics, Naproxen isn't considered a preferred choice among NSAIDs because higher levels have been detectedin babies than other similar products like Motrin (ibuprofen).
While most nursing experts believe occasional use of small doses - below 200mg – is safe during breastfeeding, we advise our readers to consult their health provider before taking any medication while nursing.
What Are The Possible Risks Of Taking Aleve While Breastfeeding?
Similar to all NSAIDsa, there are risks affiliated with consuming naproxen sodium. Within lactating mothers, possible side-effects include:
- Inhibition of milk production or let-down reflex.
- Increased risk of maternal bleeding in postpartum period.
- Increasing the baby’s likelihood of stomach problems such as constipation or diarrhoea and it could impact your child's motor skills significantly.
Due to these potential effects on a baby, many moms have resorted to other options that pose no risk at all- including icing, wearing comfortable clothing amongst others.
When Is It Safe To Take Aleve During Lactation Period?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and notable reports stress that the use ofNaproxen shouldn't occur within seven days after delivery because it increases bleeding risks within mom.Further,Nappi R et al(2014)suggested refrainingfrom Naproxen within 30 weeks’ gestational age fromto reduceinterferencewith fetal circulation
In a nutshell, although consumption may not always pose an immediate danger-due attention should be given when deciding whether aleveis suitable for you. It’s important that nuance is taken into consideration if this can only take place by contacting atrusted professional who would carry out medical examinations thoroughly prior prescribingAleve(Naproxensodium)or advising accordingly for those breastfeeding purposes.
Other Alternatives Moms Can Opt For Rather Than Aleve
If aleveis not recommended by your doctorand you'reopsearching for alternative solutions, here are some recommendations:
- Apply heat or cold compresses: Placing Ice packs orwarming pads over common bodily pain areas like neck shoulder reduces inflammation
- Use anti-inflammatory spices /food: Ginger root turmeric natural anti-inflammatory that can serves asanalgesics, relievingheadaches.
- Clove oil: A drop under moms’ tongue helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain
- Regular exercise:Low-impact exercises like yoga stretches and rapid walking offer physical relief,a sense of relaxationwhich aids mood boosters among breastfeeding mothers.
In conclusion,edging on the side of extreme caution is important if there are any doubts about safe medication use during exposure periods.We remember that medication must be a second alternativeor betterstillasupplement toboosting our body’s natural recovery systems amongst which restaus most paramount.Conclusively,we adviseyou to contact your healthcare provider wherever you have worries about medication while nursing.