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breastfeeding and migraine

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Posted 9/22/2009 6:16 AM (GMT 0)
I’ve read from some threads that taking pain medication for migraine is not good for babies who are breastfed. I am doing that now although it’s only during severe migraine attacks. My baby who’s now 5 months young didn’t show signs of any side effects like constipation or not being alert, etc. Any input that you may share regarding this? Thanks.
Posted 9/22/2009 8:28 AM (GMT 0)
Hi, themountain,
Welcome to the chronic pain forum of healing well. This is a great support group, but we're not doctors and can't give medical advice. This is also a very sensitive area that I think you need to speak with your OB about. Just because the infant isn't showing those signs doesn't mean there might not be effects. It depends on the type of medication, and even the ones claimed to be "safe" may be questionable. So I would call your doctor ASAP (your OB) and see. Sometimes there are alternatives which can be used for a time-limited period that are safer. Other times, it's best not to breastfeed.

If it was me I would only take the advice from my OB or pediatrician. Because they're going to know what's best for the baby, and are most apt to be up on the latest research.

Hope this helps a bit.

BTW, congratulations!

PaLady
Posted 9/22/2009 2:50 PM (GMT 0)
Hi. In my opinion, this will depend on how strong the pain reliever is. For example, when I was pregnant, I was still prescribed Tylenol and fioricet for my migraine attacks. These, according to my doctor, are safe medicines for unborn babies. Moreso to young babies. But of course, I’m not saying that you go ahead and take Tylenol or fioricet or any medicine. Make sure that you talk to your doctor about this. You still need to take care of your pain, you know.
Posted 9/22/2009 5:04 PM (GMT 0)
I was prescribed vicodin while breastfeeding. I Know that it is fairly safe. Congragulation on the bf keep up the good work! Remember to take care of Mommy.

Best wishes

jennifer
Posted 9/23/2009 7:08 AM (GMT 0)
Hi...and welcome to the board.... Sorry that you are dealing with migraines... especially while dealing with a little one. I've been there! Is this your first baby? Regardless, congrats on your little one!

Does the doc that is treating your migraines know that your are breastfeeding? What does he/she think? While I do believe that's where you need to start.... I also encourage you to do what you are doing and get as much info from as many sources as possible -- and then make the best decision for you and your baby.

This is just my opinion....and may not be the popular one! -- but it is based on having six kids that all breastfed...
and having to deal w/ many health things along the way -- migraines, one miscarriage, and then getting really sick w/ all the stuff I have now. So...unfortunately, it's not a black or white answer! After my miscarriage, I had a small surgery and given some meds -- and the doctor wanted me to automatically wean my baby. Long story short, after MUCH research, I decided to just "pump and dump" (while giving the baby some frozen breastmilk); I went on to nurse him for another year. That wouldn't have happened had I just listened to my doctor w/out researching it myself. That being said, I did decide to wean my last born after only one month of breastfeeding...because of my meds and other health issues.

So, I know it's a huge decision; but I'm glad you are finding out all you can about it. If you have any other specific questions or whatever, feel free to post.

--Tina
Posted 9/24/2009 8:30 PM (GMT 0)
I would call your pediatrician to get his opinion on the matter, but I was on pain medication while breastfeeding, and my pediatrician said that only a very small amount would make it through the milk and into the baby, and he had no problem with me taking them.

Congrats on the baby and the breastfeeding - it's much harder than most people think it's going to be, you really have to be committed to doing it, in order to stick with it.

I'm sorry you are dealing with migraines - I've had them since I was 14 years old, and I know how horrible they are. Taking care of a baby in the midst of a migraine is even worse - I give you a lot of credit.

Please keep us updated on how you are doing.

Lorie
Posted 9/28/2009 6:51 AM (GMT 0)
My OB sent my questons like this to a specialized lactation consultant because she was even unsure about certain medications. This is NOT something I would want to "guess"

I hope you have talked to your doctor!
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