Breastfeeding and PanadolThe questions below were raised by visitors to the STOMP (Straits Times Online Mobile Print) website in the AskST section of the website. eMenders doctors provided the answers to the questions raised as a public health education project. The information provided below is of a general nature and should not be treated as a replacement for medical advice. You should seek consultation from a medical or healthcare professional about your specific medical condition.
Question:
I was able to breastfeed my baby exclusively for 2 months when I fell sick and had a terrible headache. I ate panadol and since then, my milk supply has dropped drastically. Now, I am only able to breastfeed him at night. Even if I let him suckle, I don't get the stimulation at all now. Isn't panadol safe for breastfeeding? Also, I read from books that there is some form of medication which could help increase milk supply. How can I get those medications?
Answer:
Panadol, when taken at recommended dosages, should be safe for breastfeeding. It should not affect human breast milk production. It is possible that your breast milk production fell because you were ill, and were breastfeeding much less frequently during this time.
With patience and determination, you may be able to rebuild your milk supply. Put your baby to both the breasts during each feed. “Comfort” feedings between feedings are also encouraged. Preparations which may further increase breast milk production include fenugreek, available from many health food stores and metoclopromide. The latter can only be dispensed with a prescription from a registered medical practitioner
DR. YEOH SWEE CHOO is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre.