Opioids

Opioids are medicines used to relieve pain. They may come from the poppy plant or can be man-made. Opioids travel through the blood and attach to receptors in the brain. This blocks pain messages and can boost feelings of pleasure. Opioids are commonly used for a short amount of time after surgery for pain control. Importantly, using opioids often and for a longer period of time can lead to dependence and addiction.

Opioids cross into breast milk. Some opioids may cause babies to become very sleepy and have trouble latching onto the nipple while breastfeeding. If you notice that your baby has increased sleepiness, trouble feeding or trouble breathing, contact your healthcare professional.

Many patients who have a cesarean birth get opioids after to help with pain. A cesarean birth, commonly known as a C-section, is a surgical procedure to deliver the baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. In this case, breastfeeding and opioid use is considered safe.

When opioids are needed over a longer time for ongoing pain, the lowest dose that reduces pain should be taken for the shortest possible time. Women should breastfeed before taking the medicine to reduce infant exposure.

Codeine and tramadol should be avoided as they may cause increased sleepiness and overexposure of the opioid in the baby. Heroin should be avoided due to infant risks as well as the increased risk of infectious diseases such as HIV.

Talk with your healthcare professional about opioid use while breastfeeding.