What happens if I take Pepto while breastfeeding?

Understanding Pepto-Bismol and Breastfeeding
Pepto-Bismol, a popular over-the-counter remedy for digestive issues, raises important questions for breastfeeding mothers. While it can effectively alleviate symptoms like nausea, heartburn, and diarrhea, its safety during breastfeeding is a topic of concern among healthcare professionals.
The Main Ingredient: Salicylates
The primary active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate, which contains salicylates. These compounds are chemically related to aspirin and are known to pose risks, particularly for children. The concern is heightened by the association of salicylates with Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain in children. Given this risk, experts generally advise against the use of Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding.
Transfer to Breast Milk
Research indicates that salicylates can pass into breast milk, potentially affecting a nursing infant. Although the exact effects on babies are not well-studied, the presence of these compounds in breast milk raises caution. It is suggested that salicylates may remain in breast milk for up to two hours after ingestion. Therefore, while immediate breastfeeding after taking Pepto-Bismol is not prohibited, the potential for exposure to the baby remains a significant concern.
Recommendations from Health Experts
Health organizations, including the NHS, recommend avoiding Pepto-Bismol during breastfeeding due to the limited data on its safety and the potential risks associated with salicylates. Instead, healthcare providers often suggest alternative remedies that are considered safer for nursing mothers.
Conclusion: Proceed with Caution
In summary, while Pepto-Bismol can provide relief for digestive discomfort, its use during breastfeeding is generally discouraged due to the risks associated with salicylates and their potential transfer to breast milk. Mothers experiencing digestive issues should consult with healthcare professionals to explore safer alternatives that won’t compromise their baby’s health.

Can an upset stomach harm my unborn baby?

Can a stomach bug harm my unborn baby? While stomach bugs are typically unpleasant for pregnant women, they usually don’t pose a direct threat to the unborn baby. However, severe dehydration or complications from the illness could potentially impact the pregnancy.

What can I take instead of Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Alternatives to Pepto-Bismol
These options may include ginger, peppermint tea, or pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B-6. You might also try anti-nausea bands that you wear on your wrists.

Can you take anything for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Medicines For Digestive Problems
Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby. For a sour stomach or heartburn, Tums and Rolaids are safe to use. Look for the ingredients calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

How long until Pepto is out of your system?

As it slowly makes its way out of your body you may see black poo. This side effect usually goes away when you stop taking the medicine but it may take several days. If your tongue or your poo is still black after you’ve stopped taking Pepto-Bismol for several days, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist.

What happens if you accidentally take Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Risks of Pepto Bismol While Breastfeeding
The main concern about taking Pepto Bismol while breastfeeding is that your baby may be exposed to the salicylates in the medication. Salicylates are an ingredient in aspirin and have been linked to Reye’s syndrome, an illness that can have very serious symptoms in children.

How long does Pepto-Bismol stay in your system?

A few days after you stop using Pepto-Bismol, your tongue discoloration should go away on its own, so you don’t really need to do anything. Pepto-Bismol is usually out of your system in one day, but it can take several days for the side effect to go away.

What happens if you accidentally take Pepto while pregnant?

After taking Pepto Bismol, a mother’s bloodstream contains about as much salicylate as if she had taken a dose of regular aspirin. Salicylate cross the placenta, so the baby can be exposed. The potential exists for low birth weight, jaundice, bleeding, and birth defects.

Is Pepto-Bismol safe while breastfeeding for Reye’s syndrome?

There are currently no reports of Reye’s syndrome in babies exposed to bismuth subsalicylate and it is normally only used very short term for stomach upset. Breastfeeding mothers would be well advised to use alternative products to treat acute diarrhoea E.g. loperamine (Imodium®) if possible.

What can I take while breastfeeding instead of Pepto-Bismol?

Alternatives to Pepto-Bismol
These options may include ginger, peppermint tea, or pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B-6. You might also try anti-nausea bands that you wear on your wrists.

Can I breastfeed my baby if I have upset stomach?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.