Many new moms are sleep-deprived, and it's tough to function on minimal sleep. If you're breastfeeding, you may be wondering if it's safe to take a sleep aid.
The good news is that there are some sleep aids that are considered safe for breastfeeding moms. The key is to avoid anything that contains diphenhydramine (found in popular brands like Benadryl) or doxylamine (found in Unisom). These ingredients can pass into your breastmilk and may cause drowsiness in your baby.
Instead, look for a sleep aid that contains either Ingredient: magnesium oxide or dextromethorphan. These ingredients have not been found to cause drowsiness in babies.
If you're still not sure, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant. They can give you more information about what's safe to take while breastfeeding.
So it's no surprise that many breastfeeding moms turn to sleep aids to help them get some much-needed rest. But before you reach for that pill, it's important to understand how it might affect your baby.
Most sleep aids are classified as category C drugs, which means they haven't been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women. However, some experts believe that certain sleep aids -- specifically, those that contain diphenhydramine -- may be safe for short-term use while breastfeeding.
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that's found in medications like Benadryl and Some over-the-counter sleep aids. It's generally considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can cause drowsiness and other side effects in babies.
If you're considering taking a sleep aid while breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. They can help you choose the safest option for you and your baby.