How much of my pain medication for my c-section is safe for my breast feeding 10 day old?

Question

I had a c-section 10 days ago and and am still having alot of pain. My OB prescribed more percoset to me today b/c the pain is still at times intolerable. My OB and Ped assure me it is safe and only gets into my breastmilk minimally. I do not know of anyone who has taken a narcotic this long after giving birth. I am soooo worried about its effects on my daughter especially b/c the pharmacist told me it was not a good idea to take percoset and breastfeed. Has anyone taken painkillers and breastfed for an extended period?

Answer 1

You're still taking Percocet 10 days after your Cesarean is very unusual. Percocet is a strong narcotic. I have had 4 Cesarean sections. I had the pump for 24 hours. Then Vicodin for 2 days after. If you are in that much pain, I really suggest that you make an appointment and see your Dr. You could have an issue that needs attention. Pain Medication is in the Breast Milk. I never took pain medication and breast fed. Please do some research on the Internet (webMD.com)

Answer 2

I too had a c-cection 5 months ago now but I was only prescribed tylenol 3 and advil,I know these are safe for breast feeding but I am unsure of percoset,I was on my meds for about 2 weeks,it took me at least 3 weeks to be able to get around almost normally.You can always check with your pharmacist,they will have a book that they can check the affects for you.Good luck and congratulations.

Answer 3

ok after i gave birth to my daughter vaginally i was prescribed vicoden. and i breastfed her too. the dr.'s at the hospital new i was doing this. everyone knew. i continued taking vicoden for some time. not just for pain down there iether. i was having other pains. here are some things i did, because i too was scared it might hurt my baby.

1. i only took the vicodne if i had too. i tried extra strenght tylenol, or even advil if possible.

2. if i knew it was close to feeding time i would try to get her to eat a little early, and then take the vicoden.

3. i would take only 1 pill at a time and only every 4 hours. if i needed something in between i would take tylenol.

i took vicoden off and on for the first 9 months. she's 10 months now. i had to take them because i had various surgeries done.

percocet, or any narcotic for that matter, gets in your breastmilk all the way girl. i suggest trying to wait it out til after she has ate. this way you know you will have a little time for it to run it's course in your system. also try different feeding positions. i highly recommend the one where you lay down with her facing you. this way it allows you to relax and takes pressure off your tummy. if it's more comfortable sitting up, then try the football position. below are some links on the different breastfeeding positions and some links for info on taking narcotics while bfing.

Answer 4

Percoset can cause your infant's respiratory system to slow down causing cessation of breathing. You should try to only take 1/2 a pill every 4-6 hours.

Answer 5

Panadol works. in many cases they say on the decrease back of the packet. Panadol is paracetamol depending, so perhaps seem for yet another paracetamol pill and then verify on the decrease back if that's secure for breastfeeding moms. Congratulations on having somewhat one!!

Answer 6

if you are that concerned about the meds getting into the breast milk than give your baby formula until you can deal with the pain

Answer 7

if your doctor and the pediatrician said it'll be ok to take the meds while breastfeeding, then it's ok.

who to listen to....some random pharmacist....or yours and your childs doctors?? hmmmm....I'd go with what the doctors say.