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colonoscopy while breastfeeding

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Posted 7/10/2009 1:46 AM (GMT 0)
Anyone been there? From what I've seen the prep is fine, but I may have to pump and dump with the sedation. I haven't called and asked my GI yet. I think he expected me to wean by now, this was scheduled just after my daughter was born. Any info is appreciated.
Posted 7/10/2009 2:32 AM (GMT 0)
The prep should be fine, just be really careful to stay hydrated. You may have a bit of trouble when things really start moving. You may be spending a lot of time on the toilet or you may be sprinting to get there. Some people get nauseous or really bloated from the prep so having a wiggly baby on your lap may not be fun. Make sure you drink liquids with calories in them so you don't get too worn out. Make sure to eat or drink some extra protein after the procedure.

I'd plan to pump and dump after the procedure. Your doc (or La Leche League) should be able to tell you how long the drugs will stay in your milk. I've found that too many docs want you to wean because it makes their lives easier. Keep some extra milk in the freezer just in case you don't feel good and need to wait a bit longer.

Good luck!!!
Posted 7/10/2009 3:26 AM (GMT 0)
when I was in the hospital a month ago, I was in for severe pain and all that, a flare and they gave me the painkillers and next day they gave me a scope, I WAS a breastfeeding mom at that time, so after the painkillers, scope prep and all that when I got home I pumped and dumped, and boy was I glad cause it came out LIGHT GREEN instead of normal milky color, so it was a definate good choice that time...when it started coming the right color I stopped pumping, but yes, I'd advise to get rid of the first batch just in case. I don't know if it was the morphine for pains, or the preps and all, but yeah, it wasn't pretty....since then I basically had to give up breastfeeding anyways, but I always figure better safe then sorry anyways.
Posted 7/10/2009 12:16 PM (GMT 0)
Can you pump and freeze one feeding a day ahead of time so that if you need some time to get back up to "speed", you have some back up. I know when my daughter was tiny, I got sick. I was pumping and dumping while my Mom took care of her for a couple of days. When she came home, I never could get my milk production back up to what she needed. If I had some frozen I might have been able to keep trying for a bit to see if I could get it going again.
Posted 7/10/2009 12:39 PM (GMT 0)
I'd be inclined to pump and save BEFORE starting the prep and then pump and dump after the procedure. I would also not be at all suprised if you have a problem w/milk production after the prep and scope due to the dehydration that occurs from the prep.
Posted 7/10/2009 1:00 PM (GMT 0)
I have been there. You can breastfeed during the prep. The Dr. told me to wait 24 hrs. before breastfeeding after the colonoscopy. Good luck!
Posted 7/10/2009 1:07 PM (GMT 0)
Is this a routine C-scope? If so can you just postpone it 6 months or so? Especially if you are in remission.
Posted 7/10/2009 3:27 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks guys! You're making me feel a lot better. I do have a decent supply of frozen milk already. I pump at work 2 days a week and I used to get more than she needs. The dehydration is big to consider because I dehydrate easily anyway. With the prep, summer weather and BFing I'll have to be careful. I don't want to end up weaning her. She is 10 months, but I was planning to let her wean herself. Hopefully I can keep the supply up. It has tapered off some lately already.

LadyG-- green milk. That would freak me out. Definitely will pump and dump after.

Fitzy -- This is sort of routine, but it's been delayed already (pregnancy and all). Plus, I need the scope to get the okay to try for baby #2. I've been off some meds so long we need to see what's been brewing in the ol' gut. Hopefully all is well!
Posted 7/10/2009 6:06 PM (GMT 0)
yeah, like some said, even if I waited 24 hours afterwards, I don't think I would of wanted that milk sitting in my system waiting for baby to take in, I was glad I got rid of it. But yes, saving up ahead of time is good of course!! good luck with the scope.
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