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Can you take gas X postpartum?

Understanding Postpartum Gas and the Use of Gas-X
After giving birth, many women experience a range of physical changes, one of which is postpartum gas. This condition, characterized by increased flatulence and bloating, is not uncommon and can be attributed to several factors, including hormonal changes, dietary shifts, and physical trauma during delivery.
Causes of Postpartum Gas
Postpartum gas can arise from various sources. Common causes include:
– Pelvic Floor Injury: The physical stress of childbirth can lead to injuries that affect the pelvic floor, contributing to gas retention and discomfort.
– Constipation: Many new mothers experience constipation due to hormonal changes and dietary adjustments, which can exacerbate gas issues.
– Dietary Factors: Changes in diet, whether due to cravings during pregnancy or new eating habits post-delivery, can lead to increased gas production.
– Inflammatory Bowel Disease: For some, underlying gastrointestinal conditions may become more pronounced after childbirth, leading to gas and bloating.
While postpartum gas is typically temporary, lasting from a few weeks to several months, it can be uncomfortable and distressing for new mothers.
Is Gas-X Safe Postpartum?
When it comes to managing postpartum gas, many women wonder about the safety of over-the-counter medications like Gas-X, which contains simethicone. According to health guidelines, simethicone is generally considered low risk during pregnancy, and this extends to the postpartum period as well. However, it is always advisable for new mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before taking any medication, including Gas-X, to ensure it is appropriate for their specific situation.
Managing Postpartum Gas
In addition to medications like Gas-X, there are several natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments that can help alleviate postpartum gas. These include:
– Dietary Changes: Avoiding gas-producing foods such as beans, carbonated beverages, and certain vegetables can help reduce symptoms.
– Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can aid digestion and help prevent constipation.
– Gentle Exercise: Light physical activity, such as walking, can stimulate digestion and reduce gas buildup.
– Positioning: Certain positions, like lying on your side or using a heating pad on your abdomen, can provide relief from discomfort.
Conclusion
In summary, postpartum gas is a common experience for many new mothers, and while medications like Gas-X can be effective, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before use. Understanding the causes and exploring both medicinal and natural remedies can help manage this uncomfortable condition, allowing new mothers to focus on their recovery and their new arrival.

How do you get rid of gas after breastfeeding?

What can I do to help my baby with gas?

  1. Make sure your baby has a good latch so he doesn’t swallow too much air.
  2. Burp him throughout the feedings to help get rid of the gas.
  3. Try not to let your baby overfeed or feed too quickly.
  4. Keep track of when your baby is gassy and look back at your diet.

What helps with postpartum gas?

Doing things like increasing your fiber intake and avoiding gassy foods like beans and broccoli can help with gas, says Dr. Wu. But the truth is, sometimes the best way to relieve gas symptoms is to take medication, and there’s no shame in that.

What does trapped gas feel like?

Trapped gas can feel like pain or pressure in various locations throughout the trunk of your body. Gas pain can feel like: Tenderness, fullness or pressure (bloating) in your abdomen (sometimes, your belly looks visibly larger, or distended). A sharp, stabbing pain or a dull ache in your abdomen.

How long does postpartum gas pain last?

Postpartum gas should only last a few days, but if you notice it lasting longer, you have pain with pooping or hemorrhoids, consider scheduling with a pelvic PT to assess what may be the root cause for you.

Who should not take Gas-X?

You should not use Gas-X if you are allergic to it. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take Gas-X if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have any type of serious illness (especially one that affects your stomach or intestines).

How do you flush postpartum hormones?

Eat Proteins – Proteins are necessary for your body to produce and regulate hormones. Try including more proteins and lean meats. Eat Fiber – Your body releases estrogen through bowel movements, so constipation can cause excess estrogen to be absorbed back into the bloodstream. Eat enough fiber to help you go.

How do I get rid of gas while breastfeeding?

What can I do to help my baby with gas?

  1. Make sure your baby has a good latch so he doesn’t swallow too much air.
  2. Burp him throughout the feedings to help get rid of the gas.
  3. Try not to let your baby overfeed or feed too quickly.
  4. Keep track of when your baby is gassy and look back at your diet.

Why does it hurt to fart postpartum?

Pelvic floor damage
Pregnancy and giving birth may stretch and injure muscles and nerves in the pelvic floor. This may reduce the control a person has over passing gas. The back of the pelvic floor controls the anus. It is not unusual for the anal sphincter muscles to tear during birth.

Why does my gas smell so bad postpartum?

All these changes contribute to gas being trapped in the digestive system, thus causing gas pain and increased flatulence release. Now imagine how bad the gas that was trapped for long will smell. At this point it has fermented and will smell extremely bad. That’s what most new moms experience.

Can a nursing mother take Gas-X?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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