How to Deal with a Cold when Breastfeeding

Suffering a cold when you are breastfeeding brings a plethora of discomfort. Not only does it harm your health, it can also potentially harm your baby’s health. The fact that it cannot be easily remedied by over-the-counter medications makes it more of a nuisance. In addition, not all medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Hence, caution must be taken in selecting which cold remedy to take.

The first thing that you should ask yourself is if a non-medical approach is possible. Breastfeeding mothers are usually encouraged to seek non-medical or natural approaches to remedy common colds since they tend to be safer for the baby. Some effective natural remedies include:

*Taking naps
*Taking Vitamin C supplements or drinking juices of Vitamin C-rich fruits like oranges
* Vicks VapoRub infused warm dry cloth
*Use a humidifier
*Enough rest and relaxation

Secondly, research other possible medications that you can safely use. You can consult a doctor, pharmacy technician or other health care professionals in this regard. Also, the internet proves to be a valuable resource for researching the over-the-counter drugs that are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Being careful in choosing your cold medication is important. You need to remember that whatever medecine you have taken will be excreted on your breast milk. Choosing the wrong drug may even impede your ability to produce milk. As a rule of thumb, cold medications that are safe for pregnant women are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers.

Knowing the facts about your cold remedy options is necessary in choosing the best and safest of treatment to follow. It is never safe to assume things, especially when it comes to common cold treatment. While some natural remedies deliver potent healing benefits, there are also some medications that are ideal for breastfeeding women. Tylenol Cold and Sudafed, Beconase and Flonase nasal spray, are just some of the breastfeeding safe medications. For allergy-induced colds, non-sedating Sudafed and Benadryl work effectively. Allegra is another effective drug, but must be avoided for long-term use. However, you need to remember that some cold capsules and formulas are only meant to deliver one day relief. Long-term use of these capsules and formulas may be harmful to your health and might affect your ability to maintain a supply of milk.

To prevent risking your health on inappropriate cold medications, stay away from drugs that promise 9 to 12-hour fast acting relief. No cold condition can never be eliminated that quickly. All they do is bring relief to some uncomfortable cold symptoms, and compromise the quality of breast milk among breastfeeding mothers. This emphasizes the importance of avoiding self-medication. Always consult your doctor regarding such medications. Not only will his advice help you improve your condition, it will also safeguard the well-being of your baby.

Breastfeeding is a wonderful experience both for you and your baby. Do not allow a simple cold ruin the experience. Utilizing these practical tips and immediately seeking the help your health care provider should guide you on choosing the best treatment option that will protect you and your nursing baby.