Most medications are contraindicated for a nursing mother, since through milk (with hepatitis B) they enter the baby's body, for which a small dose is enough for severe poisoning. However, postpartum stress and anxiety sometimes do not leave the mother with a choice and she has to take a sedative, most often valerian. Therefore, a natural question arises - is valerian dangerous when breastfeeding?
Application of valerian
The hormonal surge that affects a woman throughout pregnancy does not subside even after childbirth. Unfortunately, all mothers, to one degree or another, worry about the child and his health. Valerian preparations are the safest and most effective remedy for stressful situations in pregnant women and mothers who are breastfeeding.
It is prescribed in tablets - so you can observe the exact dosage. Although valerian has virtually no side effects, it is best to be careful.
Valerian is indispensable for sleep disorders, nervous conditions, headaches, depression. In addition, valerian preparations can serve as an antispasmodic for bowel problems.
Valerian action
Valerian is an herbal medicine and it is believed that it can be prescribed to anyone without the supervision and advice of a doctor. However, this is not the case - valerian easily penetrates through the milk of a nursing mother to her baby and influences him. Therefore, valerian during breastfeeding is also a medicine and this must be remembered.
But before giving up valerian, take into account the negative factors, because you will not be able to solve your problem - do not get enough sleep, do not calm down, your head will still hurt. A fresh, rested and cheerful mother is the most important thing for a child.
Possible reactions to the use of valerian during breastfeeding
Be that as it may - valerian has an effect on both the mother and the baby, therefore, before use, it is still necessary to consult a therapist and pediatrician.
Some of the effects of taking valerian may be negative:
- Despite the fact that valerian is an herbal medicine, there are also allergies to it. Such consequences occur when the dosage significantly exceeds the permissible norms.
- Often, the effect is exactly the opposite - babies are overexcited, their sleep is disturbed. Long-term use of valerian in a newborn may become constipated.
- Lethargy is also a common infant's reaction to valerian. A long sleep, reluctant breastfeeding - all this should alert a young mother.
- There is also a myth that taking the valerian drug reduces milk production. However, you should know that stress, nervousness, lack of sleep are the main enemies of reduced lactation. And the myth will remain a myth. (about lactation ...)
Valerian dosage
Valerian is available in various forms:
- Pills;
- Dragee;
- Herb in tea bags;
- Roots and rhizomes for infusion;
- Ready tea.
Usually, valerian during breastfeeding is prescribed only in tablets - two to three a day. The course rarely exceeds ten days, but occasionally it can be extended.
Some more tips for moms who are breastfeeding - Read.
On this topic:
- Breast hurts when feeding a baby
- The baby spits up after breastfeeding
