Is Pepto Bismol Safe While Breastfeeding?
Pepto Bismol is rated L3 for lactation risk. That means it’s “moderately safe” while breastfeeding. It’s not in the safest group, but don’t worry—there’s no real danger to your baby from short-term use. Pepto Bismol is not recommended for long-term use, though. If you only took it once or twice, it’s okay to keep breastfeeding. You don’t need to wait before nursing again. Pepto Bismol breastfeeding safety is mostly a concern when it’s used often or for too long.
Rye’s Syndrome & Taking Pepto Bismol While Breastfeeding
Pepto Bismol and other antacids with bismuth subsalicylate, like Kaopectate, should not be used often while breastfeeding. These medicines have been linked to Reye’s syndrome in children, which is a rare but serious illness. It’s very unlikely through breast milk, but doctors still recommend caution. When it comes to Pepto Bismol breastfeeding, short-term use is usually okay—but regular use is not safe.
Natural Remedies that May Help
What to Take for an Upset Stomach While Breastfeeding
- If your stomach’s acting up, try sipping some black tea with honey. The warm tea helps keep you hydrated, and the tannins in it may calm your gut. It’s gentle and safe for breastfeeding.
- You can also take ground psyllium husk. Mix one to three tablespoons with water. It helps soak up extra fluid in your gut, which can make your stool less runny. This is a good option if you’re dealing with mild diarrhea.
- The BRAT diet is a simple eating plan often recommended for people with diarrhea, nausea, or upset stomach — including breastfeeding moms. BRAT stands for: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast
These foods are easy to digest, low in fat and fiber, and gentle on the stomach. Here’s a breakdown of why each one helps:- Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps replace electrolytes lost through diarrhea or vomiting. They’re also binding, which can help firm up loose stools.
- Plain white rice gives you energy without irritating your gut. It’s starchy and bland, which helps absorb excess fluid in your digestive system.
- Applesauce contains pectin, a natural fiber that can bulk up your stool. It’s also easy to keep down when you’re feeling queasy.
- Plain toast (especially white bread) helps settle your stomach and provides some carbs for energy.
- Avoid butter or spreads while you’re still feeling sick.
- Mayo Clinic – Gastro first aid
- Again, if you’re thinking about taking Pepto Bismol while breastfeeding, remember—it’s okay short-term, but not something to take regularly. Try natural options like these first if possible.
What to Take for Nausea While Breastfeeding
- For nausea, small sips of Coke can help. A little caffeine is fine while breastfeeding, unless your baby seems sensitive to it.
- Peppermint tea is another good choice. It’s often used for nausea, but it might make very young babies a bit fussy. Too much peppermint can also lower milk supply, so it’s best to drink it in small amounts and see how your baby reacts.
- Ginger is also great. Ginger tea, ginger ale, or fresh ginger can all help with nausea. It’s completely safe to use while breastfeeding.
If you’re unsure about using Pepto Bismol and breastfeeding, these natural remedies are safer bets. Always talk to your doctor if your symptoms don’t get better.
Staying Hydrated
No matter what, staying hydrated is key—especially when you’re breastfeeding. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. If you’re still thirsty, drink more. Everybody is different, and breastfeeding moms often need extra fluids.
You can also make your own natural electrolyte drink to help replace lost fluids, especially if you’re feeling sick or have diarrhea. This can be a gentle way to recover without needing meds. Or drink 1 body armor drink.
Make Your Own Hydration Drink:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cups of water (filtered or purified) or raw coconut water
- 4 tbsp organic raw honey
- 2/8 tsp (3.6g) Himalayan Pink salt
Q&A
The lactation risk assessment is L3, meaning it is “fairly safe.” Even though it is not in the safe category, your baby is not in any real danger. Pepto Bismol is not recommended for long-term use.
You can go back to breastfeeding your baby immediately after taking it. It is not necessary to pump and dump after taking Pepto Bismol.
One to two hours. Like aspirin, Pepto Bismol contains salicylates, which may be present in breast milk for up to two hours after taking it.
What about Imodium while breastfeeding?
Antidiarrheal meds containing ‘loperamide,’ such as Imodium, Imodium A-D, Maalox Anti Diarrheal, Pepto Diarrhea Control, and Kaopectate II caplets are considered safe while breastfeeding.
What about Tums while breastfeeding?
The calcium and magnesium in antacids like Maalox and Tums are absorbed into your bloodstream, but they won’t significantly affect your breast milk.
References and Resources
- Breastfeeding Basics – When a mother gets sick
- La Leche League International – Breastfeeding support
